Airport wireless network scan

Study Methodology

  • Visited 27 airports world-wide (20 in US, 2 in Europe, 5 in Asia-Pacific)
  • Scanned Wi-Fi signal for 5 minutes at randomly selected locations typically a departure gate or lounge area)
  • Traces collected using off the shelf Wi-Fi card and publicly available data collection tools
  • Traces collected between 30 Jan 2008 through 8 Feb 2008

Key Findings and Implications

  • Critical airport systems found vulnerable to Wi-Fi threats
  • ~80% of the private Wi-Fi networks at airports are OPEN / WEP!
  • Data leakage by both hotspot and non-hotspot users
  • Only 3% of hotspot users are using VPNs to encrypt their data! Non-hotspot users found leaking network information
  • 'Viral Wi-Fi' outbreak continues
  • Over 10% laptops found to be infected!

Airport Study Clips

Hacking Airport Wifi

Forbes, Taylor Buley, 11/20/2008

Hackers Target Airports

Forbes Video Network, Taylor Buley, 11/20/2008

Is it Safe?

Forbes, Taylor Buley, 11-20-2008

Insights into WLAN security and wireless technology
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