[intro]Users of some public Wi-Fi security networks in places such as hotels, pubs and cafés are being warned they may be at risk of having their personal and financial data stolen by hackers.[/intro]It follows the discovery of serious cyber security flaws at ten prominent hotels in Dublin and around the country. Cork-based IT security company Smarttech visited ten hotels between the end of October and the start of November.

They carried out test cyber attacks on the publicly accessible Wi-Fi networks in the premises. They used techniques they claim even a novice internet hacker would know.

Within 20 minutes in all ten hotels, they were able to exploit flaws on the Wi-Fi networks to access guests’ web traffic and sensitive information. This included email login data, credit card details, Facebook passwords, PayPal account details and online banking information.

In some cases, the engineers were even able to access the data from outside the hotels. The company has now informed all ten hotels of their findings and has recommended they address the flaws. It is also warning others to check the Wi-Fi security of their networks. Under EU law, it is the duty of the premises owner to ensure their Wi-Fi security network is secure for customers using it.

Source: rte.ie/news/2013/1211/492114-wifi-security