Man accused of ‘evil twin’ scam using fake Wi-Fi networks at Australian airports: report

A 42-year-old Australian man faces charges in connection with an “evil twin” scam that involved using “fake free Wi-Fi networks” to steal personal information from unsuspecting users at airports in Perth, Melbourne and Adelaide.

According to a report from news.com.authe man deployed the device in various locations, including airports and on domestic flights, to replicate legitimate Wi-Fi networks as “evil twin” copies.

Authorities say they have recovered the personal information of numerous people and forensic analyzes of the seized devices are currently underway.

Here’s how the scam happened

The man allegedly operated a free Wi-Fi device that redirected users to a fake website when they tried to connect their devices. Police said users were asked to log in using their email address or social media credentials.

Authorities said the man stored this data on his devices, potentially accessing further personal information such as online communications, stored media and banking details.

The alleged fraud came to light in April when the airline reported a suspicious WiFi network on a domestic flight, prompting police intervention.

How was he caught?

The report said Australian Federal Police (AFP) investigators searched the man’s personal belongings upon his arrival at Perth Airport on April 19 following an interstate flight.

They seized a portable wireless access device, a laptop and a mobile phone from his hand luggage. Officers then also searched his residence in Palmyra, near Fremantle.

A second search warrant was executed at the home on May 8, resulting in a man being arrested and charged with a number of offences. Police say they recovered personal information on a number of people.

“Internet users should exercise caution”

The AFP Western Command Cyber ​​Crime Department said internet users should always be cautious when logging onto public Wi-Fi networks. “You do not need to provide any personal information to connect to free Wi-Fi, such as logging in via email or social media accounts,” police said.

Police have advised people using public hotspots to consider installing a reputable VPN on their devices to encrypt and secure their data. It was also suggested to avoid sensitive activities such as banking while connected to public networks and to disable file sharing. After use, it was recommended to adjust the device settings to “forget network”.

Additionally, it was recommended to turn off Wi-Fi on devices before going out to prevent them from automatically connecting to hotspots.

People using available Wi-Fi networks at airports and on domestic flights have been encouraged to change their passwords and report any suspicious activity to cyber.gov.au.