Warning issued after Perth man is arrested for stealing flyer’s data via ‘evil twin’ Wi-Fi scam

Anonymous hacker in front of his computer with red light wall backgroundAnonymous hacker in a black hoody with laptop in front of a code background with binary streams cyber security concept

Australian authorities are warning flyers to be vigilant after a man was arrested for allegedly setting up ‘evil twin’ Wi-Fi networks on flights and at airports.

Evil twin attacks involve an individual setting up a free Wi-Fi network that has login pages specifically designed to steal users’ data.

The email and password details harvested could be used to access more personal information, including a victim’s online communications, stored images and videos or bank details.

According to Darkreading, airline employees were tipped off after they discovered a suspicious Wi-Fi network during a flight. Once the flight landed in Perth, a 42-year-old-man was arrested. He was found with a mobile access device, laptop and mobile phone in his luggage.

A further investigation found evidence of similar cybercrimes committed at airports in Melbourne, Adelaide and other locations.

The ABC reported that the man, Michael Clapsis, appeared before Australia’s Perth Magistrates Court and has now been released on strict bail. He has also reportedly had to surrender his passport.

“To connect to a free Wi-Fi network, you shouldn’t have to enter any personal details – such as logging in through an email or social media account,” Andrea Colman, an Australian AFP cybercrime detective inspector said in a statement.

“If you do want to use public Wi-Fi hotspots, install a reputable virtual private network on your devices to encrypt and secure your data when using the Internet.”

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