As the popularity of wireless broadband internet connection continues to soar, the problem of internet security is rising in prominence, too. Up to half of those surfing the net in the UK are doing so via a wireless broadband connection; but, disturbingly, nearly 20% of these are doing so without any security.

It seems that many people naively believe that because they’re with a reputable broadband provider like TalkTalk Broadband, 02 Broadband, Think Broadband or one of the supermarket services like Tesco Broadband, they must be safe. But, alas, this is most definitely not so. The bad news about wireless broadband is that, without protection, it’s notoriously easy to hitch a ride on; four million people admitted hijacking someone else’s wireless network in the last year.

Most of these casual hijackers are not necessarily doing anything sinister, other than trying to hitch a free ride: they just fire up their devices in the vicinity of someone’s wireless set up. But if it’s your service they’re secretly surfing, they could land you with a hefty bill, when they breach your service provider’s download cap, you’ll be expected to pay for their excesses. Some illicit hijackers are also trying to steal personal data, so security simply cannot be regarded as an optional extra.  Essential safeguards include ensuring that your router uses ‘Wi-Fi protected access’ (WAP) encryption rather than the older ‘wired equivalent protection’ (WEP). WAP is more complex and more secure. Always know your download limit (it’ll be in your contract) and stay within it, and use the latest firewall and anti-virus software.  Be safe, be secure and enjoy your broadband connection.