Tips for Safe Hot-Spotting
Hot-spots are locations that provide public access to wireless (typically 802.11 based) networks that in turn provide connectivity to the internet. Some hot-spots locations provide access for free and some are subscription based. These wireless hot-spots raise security concerns because the signal and the data is broadcast unencrypted in public arenas with unknown users and listening devices within range. In order to simplify and enhance usage, hot-spot service providers set up their network access for ease of use and accessibility. That type of network access configuration implies little or no security when connecting.
Although never 100% secure, there are a few things you can do to make your hot-spot connection more secure.
- Turn off file and printer sharing on your tablet PC. Vulnerabilities in the operating system can allow another user access to your machine after you have logged off. If you must use file and printer sharing only enable it when within a known secure network or enterprise.
- Remove networks listed on your "Preferred networks" list for which Windows XP automatically connect by broadcasting your listed corporate and home SSIDs. The broadcasting of these SSIDs can provide an attacker with information they may later use to break into your network.
- Turn off "Ad-Hoc" networking. This feature allows an intruder to access the network by going through your PC and your wireless connection. If you need to use "Ad-Hoc" networking only enable it when you need it and be sure to turn it off when done.
- Use a personal firewall and intrusion detection software (IDS) that detects malicious scanning and monitoring of your tablet PC activities. Also install and use antivirus software and it is very important to make sure that your tablet has all the latest security patches and updates installed.
- Use a Virtual Private Network (VPN) communication service to connect to the internet or an enterprise network. Confirm that your VPN software setting for TCP/IP configuration has split tunneling disabled. Split tunneling allows multiple secure and unsecured channels to be opened in a single communication link. A VPN connection will require user authentication and allow you to communicate securely by encrypting and decrypting communications. Typically, corporations will have VPN services available for remote employees but there are also subscription based VPN services available. Check out www.HotSpotVPN.com
