RCMP warn Wi-Fi users to be aware of ‘Honeypots’

Police are warning the public about fake Wi-Fi networks that claim to be from the Royal Canadian Mounted Police and other emergency organizations.

The RCMP say unsecured networks that may appear as police, fire or paramedics are more than likely a Wi-Fi honeypot.

Honeypots are a social engineering scam similar to phishing and are created to entice people to connect to the network.

Once a user is connected, the hacker can access personal information, and control the camera and microphone on the device.

Police say users should stick to wireless networks and hotspots that you know to ensure a safe connection.

The RCMP is also advising people to protect your own Wi-Fi network from unwanted users by setting a strong password, limiting access to specific authorized computers or devices, and restricting the broadcast of the Wi-Fi name so only authorized users are able to sign in.

Anyone who feels their computer or device may have been compromised by an unauthorized user should check with their internet service provider and contact local police if they detect illegal activity.