Wi-fi technology lets people surf the net anywhere

A major exhibition of the latest computer technology opens in Newport later, including demonstrations of the latest security measures to counteract the threat from cyber criminals.

Wireless access - known as wi-fi - allows users to get broadband access to services through a wireless "hotspot" set up in their company, home or in places such as hotels and cafes.

But there are growing concerns the technology is vulnerable to computer hackers because the wireless signals spill out into public areas where criminals can capture them.

The event at the Celtic Manor Hotel, entitled Technology Wales 04, or TW04, is bringing together some of the leading IT firms, and is expecting to attract over 2,000 delegates.

But just a few miles down the road from the event, computer expert Jason Hart has demonstrated some of the risks facing computer users at the Newport Business Park.

'Control'

Driving around in his car and using standard equipment, he is able to identify several firms which could become targets for "drive-by hackers".

"There is one now I have just picked up on and that would be very vulnerable and open to attack," he said.

At the very least, hackers who get in to the internet account would be able to surf for free.

The alarm bells really began to sound then so it is something we're going to take quick and drastic steps to put right as soon as we can Barrie Desmond

But that is just the beginning of the problem for companies.

Mr Harts said: "Once we do that, we can start editing or changing any settings on that device within the network and we can get full control of the network."

One company in the park gave him permission to attempt to hack into their system, which he was easily able to do.

Following the experiment, the company's boss, Barrie Desmond, said: "The alarm bells really began to sound then so it is something we're going to take quick and drastic steps to put right as soon as we can."

Business and home users of wi-fi are being advised to at least enable the security settings on the software they install to keep hackers out.

Wireless broadband is becoming increasingly popular.

Just last week, Cardiff council announced it was to become the first wi-fi city in the UK.

From this summer it is setting up a network of wireless hotspots at public places across the city centre and in the bay.