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WiFi Hotspot Security?

SamIchi

SamIchi

macrumors 68030
Original poster
Aug 1, 2004
2,716
137
Are there any precautions I should take when at a hotspot? Besides making sure no one is looking at my screen when I'm typing in my password, is there anything else I need to do. Like turn off certain ports or something. I know by default, communication ports are closed, so can someone access my files when at a hotspot?
 
I dont know where your from, but here in Australia we have 'telstra' hotspots, which are at most macdonalds, some cafe's, hotels, airports, etc.

They block port 110 (pop3) probably to prevent clear text password transfers.

Most hotspot's dont allow communication between connected clients.

Best thing to do would be to search for the company's hotspot info on the net, see the tech notes, etc, or even just call them up and ask. (unlikely you'll get someone that knows anything about them however)

it's not hard to disable your running services, or just to activate your firewall. Probably a good idea anyway when your mobile...

good luck
 
Turn on the OS X firewall...let it be on default settings.

Don't do any online banking or high security stuff. Even like paypal type stuff.

If it's a public hotspot, it's too easy for people to tap in and play. Hell I've even done my share of poking and probing at public hotspots. Digitally, of course. :D
 
OutThere said:
Turn on the OS X firewall...let it be on default settings.

Don't do any online banking or high security stuff. Even like paypal type stuff.

If it's a public hotspot, it's too easy for people to tap in and play. Hell I've even done my share of poking and probing at public hotspots. Digitally, of course. :D
Click to expand...

Hmm, I just won an Ebay auction too. I'm not goin to be able to get back home for another week. Any suggestions on finding a secure spot?
 
SamIchi said:
Hmm, I just won an Ebay auction too. I'm not goin to be able to get back home for another week. Any suggestions on finding a secure spot?
Click to expand...

Jack into a a Cybercafe. That's the best place. Physically wired, that is.

Wireless has so many insecurities. You'd be amazed what people can find out. All they need is a few minutes to pull down the packets your sending. A physical connection is best. OR you can drive around and see if any apartments have an unlocked access point. Most people in apartments, and msot people in general don't lock down their ap's, and thus you're on.

A lot of times you can even gain access to someone's router just typing in a local IP number and "admin" for the login/password and your in to their actual router. That way you can see if it's logging, but I recommend to be good natured and not upload any firmware updates that frag routers... that's just cruel...
 
What about college dorms, i just moved in and it's all wireless. Does Leopard firewall do enough? I'm afraid to do anything that I would normally do at home, but I'm eventually going to have to.
 
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