How To Protect Your Wireless Network (NAPSA)—One of the latest identity theft threats is to those whohave a wireless computer net- work in their homeoroffice. TheID thieves work like this: Armed with wireless-enabled laptop computers, WiFi hackers will drive through neighborhoods and business parks to see if they can access unprotected and unencrypted wireless com- puter networks. If they are suc- cessful, they can hijack those networks’ Internet connections to send spam or download illegal materials. These tips will help protect your wireless network from hackers: Don’t use TCP/IP for shar- ing files and sharing printers—If criminals connect to your wireless network, they could potentially access your shared files and printers. Prevent this by denying access to file and print sharing, which will restrict those features from being used by computers outside your network. Follow safe practices for file sharing—Be careful about what files you share on your net- work, and only share specific fold- ers—not the whole computer. Also, use a strong password when shar- ing folders. Enable WEP encryption— “Wired equivalent privacy” (WEP) is designed to provide the same level of security as a wired network. Thieves usually seek the easiest victim and the least secure network, so the moresecurity features you enable, the greater your chances are of staying safe. Use WEPfor data authenti- cation—Some products let you set the authentication method to Goop Geek Apvice: Change your computer’s password frequently to prevent criminals from breaking in. “shared key” or “open system.” The shared-key method allows for encryption to be used that will authenticate your computer and its data. Use nonobvious WEP keys— Whensetting the encryption key on the router, do not use a word that someone can guess. Use a combination of random letters and numbers. Consider using a “Virtual Private Network” (VPN)—If you do not want to take chances with your data, use a VPN tunnel over yourwireless connection. For more information, visit www.geeksoncall.com. Geeks On Call is an onsite computer support company that trains its technicians in the technical aspects of servicing computers as well as the finer points of customer service. Small businesses— or home computer users—can call the support service and receive help the same day or the next day.
