Discovered a critical vulnerability Wi-Fi-networks: what it means and what to do

All devices that connect to Wi-Fi, can be cracked. Experts note that under the threat of at least 41% of devices on Android.

Belgian security experts have found a vulnerability in the WPA2 protocol used in most Wi-Fi networks. The hole in the protocol called KRACK (Key Reinstallation Attacks). Meti Vanha (Mathy Vanhoef) of Leuven University has published data on the vulnerability of the site KrackAttacks.com.

According to the expert, serious shortcomings in the WPA and WPA2 security protocols allow an attacker who is in Wi-Fi coverage area of ​​the victim, access to any transmitted information.

Burglars can steal credit card numbers, passwords, instant messages, emails, photos and other sensitive information believed to be reliable encrypted. In addition, an attacker could, for example, to introduce malware on websites opened via Wi-Fi.

Even using a secure HTTPS protocol provides no protection when browsing.

The vulnerability affects all current wireless networks, so that all are under threat Soup supporting Wi-Fi, no matter what system they installed. Underwent successful hacking devices macOS, Windows, iOS, Android, Linux and OpenBSD. In addition to browsers, vulnerable apps for banking services and even applications that connect to the VPN.

Experts have called the attack "particularly devastating" against the devices based on Linux and Android. 41% Android devices can be compromised if they are not updated in the near future. However, the Google has known about the vulnerability, so you should expect security patches.

To prevent hacking, users should immediately install the updates as soon as they become available on all your devices.