There’s a new bug that’s made practically every device that supports Wi-Fi vulnerable to ransomware and data theft. Your Apple iPad, your Android phone, your Linux computer, and more are all at risk. What can you do now to keep your data safe?

Following on the heels of the major Equifax data breach, we’ve been dealt another devastating blow to our sense of online security. Krack makes it possible for hackers to see your online activity, steal your personal data (credit card numbers, social security numbers, and more), and hold it ransom until you’re forced to pay up.

While this doesn’t sound much different from past data breaches, what makes Krack so devastating is it’s sheer breadth. Virtually every single device that supports Wi-Fi is threatened. Currently, Android and Linux devices are most at risk; however, that doesn’t mean Apple and Microsoft products are 100% immune.

Krack is the shorter and easier-to-remember abbreviation for “key reinstallation attack.” This new bug can see data transmitted from your wireless device to your network. WPA2, also known as Wi-Fi Protected Access 2, encrypts your Wi-Fi connection, and it’s used by a majority of companies and individuals. However, Krack has found a weakness in WPA2’s security, which has made this attack possible.

The good news is that the hackers have to be within range of your Wi-Fi to break in. The bad news is that, in 2017, Wi-Fi seems to surround us.

One of the most important things you can do is update your devices. Although news of the attack just broke this week, there are “patches” currently available and coming soon.

• Android: Patches coming the week of Nov.
• Apple: Patches for devices coming soon
• Linux: Patches available now
• Microsoft: Patches automatically in place on updated devices
• Samsung: Patches coming soon

Another important thing to remember is to not abandon WPA2. The alternative, WPA1, faces security threats that are just as bad.

Finally, more than just your phones and laptops are in danger. Your printers, televisions, and more—anything connected to Wi-Fi—is affected, so make sure you update all devices. Once you update your devices and apply the patches manufacturers have made available, you should be protected.

Unfortunately, hackers are always looking for the next way to steal your data. If you have any questions about protecting your online security, or are looking for a long-term partner to help keep you safe, contact us today.