WA man allegedly sets up fake free wi-fi networks at Australian airports

A 42-year-old man from Western Australia has been slapped with nine cybercrime charges. He stands accused of creating fake “evil twin” wi-fi networks in Australian airports and domestic flights to swipe personal data. The suspect set up these phoney networks in Perth, Melbourne and Adelaide airports, as well as in other locations linked to his past workplaces.

A suspicion was sparked in April when an airline staff reported an odd wifi network on a domestic flight. A police probe began, leading to the discovery of a portable wireless device, a laptop, and a mobile phone in the man's baggage upon his return to Perth. He was arrested after an additional search at his home.

The fake networks were reportedly designed to redirect users to a decoy page that requested their email or social media login details. He could then use these obtained details to gain unauthorised access to personal information such as online communications, photos, videos, and banking data.

The accused faces charges including unauthorised impairment of electronic communication, possession of data with the intent to commit a serious offence, and more.

Det Insp Andrea Coleman of the AFP’s cybercrime division warns the public against entering personal details when using public wifi. She recommends changing passwords and reporting suspicious activity to the police.

- CyberBeat