Question

Research a specific vulnerability with one of the many implementations of security for wireless networks. Provide a brief summary of vulnerability and provide a detailed overview of why the vulnerability exists. (3-4 sentences). Lastly, briefly describe how it is exploited and how to mitigate. (1-2 sentences).

Answer 1

Wireless networks are specifically vulnerable to attacks because it is difficult to prevent physical access to them. Some specific vulnerabilities are listed below:

1. USB thumb drivers: USB drives are easily available as they are not expensive, small, hold large amount of data and can be used between multiple computer types.
2. Wireless access points: Wireless acess points provide immediate connectivity to any user within nearness of the network.
3. Smartphones and other digital devices: Smartphones do more than to call anyone from anywhere. They are full-functioning computers, complete with Wi-Fi connectivity, multithreaded operating systems, high storage capacity, high-resolution cameras and vast application support.
4. The Trojan human: Trojan Human could be in business attire or dressed like legitimate repairman (appliance, telecom, HVAC).
5. Optical media: In June 2010, an Army intelligence analyst was arrested after being charged with stealing and leaking confidential data to public networks.

It is exploited by using exploit kits. Exploit kits contain tools which were embedded in compromised web pages which automatically scans the users machine for vulnerabilities and try to exploit them.

It can never be mitigate permanently as you should take security measures and required precautions.