There is a new plug-in for Firefox, called Firesheep, that allows those that have implemented it to "sidejack" some of your accounts, such as Facebook, Gmail, etc. when you are logged into a public wi-fi network. The author of this plug-in states that his intentions are not malicious but that he just released the app to show people how vulnerable they are.

Of course, it now enables everyone who installs this plug-in to now not only know what apps like Facebook others are running but allows them to log into those accounts and use them just as if they were the owner.

So what can we do about it. Well, the obvious answer is to not log into certain accounts when using public wireless networks such as libraries, MacDonald's, Starbucks, etc. These accounts include Facebook, Gmail and other similar accounts. Also, when using your wireless phone, don't connect to the public wireless network, use the 3G or 4G connection.

For a more in depth look at this and for tips on how to protect yourself, you can go to this article from CNN Tech.

Its getting really scary out there!

 
Posted by Mike Saunders on 11/01/2010 03:23 PM   Comments (11)   Data Security in the ActiveRain Channel   wireless security  
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11 Comments on New FireFox Plug-In, FireSheep, Puts Public Wi-Fi Users at Risk

NOV
01
2010
862,794 Points 174 Featured Posts Outside Blog Attended Rain Camp Called Shot Master

So the suggestion is not to install this app.  I can do that.  I'd rather have fewer apps installed on Firefox anyway. 
3:30pm • #1
563,876 Points 17 Featured Posts Outside Blog Called Shot Master

Bryan - it allows those that install the plug - in to look at your accounts and 'jack them.
3:35pm • #2
366,508 Points 17 Featured Posts Localism Sponsor Outside Blog Hit Router Called Shot Master

So, anybody who installs that app can get into my stuff without me knowing???
3:43pm • #3
563,876 Points 17 Featured Posts Outside Blog Called Shot Master

Virginia - that's how it appears
3:51pm • #4
223,882 Points 14 Featured Posts Called Shot Master

The ability has always been there, Mike.  What's really scary is now someone has made an app that allows the average person to jack into your accounts vs. the techie criminal guy. 
5:55pm • #5
563,876 Points 17 Featured Posts Outside Blog Called Shot Master

Roger - yep, now it is available to the non-geek to hack into your business.
7:53pm • #6
279,426 Points 2 Featured Posts Outside Blog Called Shot Master

Good to know Mike. Are you also saying they can only hack into what you are logged into? If I don't use any of the examples above I've got nothing to worry about?

Bob
8:44pm • #7
874,820 Points 154 Featured Posts Localism Sponsor Outside Blog Hit Router Attended Rain Camp Called Shot Master

I read this, I think on Mashable, there is someone who has created an app to block it, But I prefer NOT to use wifi's in public places for this reason.
8:49pm • #8
563,876 Points 17 Featured Posts Outside Blog Called Shot Master

Bob - if you aren't logged in, they can't track you with this.

Missy - this now just adds to the apps that I won't use on public wi-fir
11:34pm • #9
882,832 Points 50 Featured Posts Localism Sponsor Outside Blog Hit Router Attended Rain Camp

I seldom use public wi-fi... although I have... I prefer to use my Clear modem. 
11:45pm • #10
NOV
02
2010

WOW, thanks for posting this Mike. I do not use them with any regularity but this is really good to know, thank you!
8:21pm • #11


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