What is a Wireless Intrusion Detection System?
A wireless intrusion detection system (WIDS) scans a wireless network for authorized access attempts, rogue access points, or abnormal activity, serving as a first line of defense against data breaches or cyberattacks. WIDS achieves this by analyzing a network’s radio frequencies and the devices connected to the network. Wireless intrusion detection systems then alert network administrators to misconfigurations or vulnerabilities before they are exploited by bad actors who seek to disrupt critical operations in government or corporate spaces.
Advanced WIDS scan WLAN activities, both authorized and unauthorized, around the clock. While detection ranges can differ based on the wireless IDS device, they generally operate effectively within a traditional network perimeter.
What is the Difference Between a Wireless Intrusion Detection System (WIDS) and a Wireless Intrusion Prevention System (WIPS)?
Wireless intrusion detection systems (WIDS) and wireless intrusion prevention systems (WIPS) operate at a radiofrequency level and are designed for intrusion protection. However, the latter wireless security software (WIPS) outperforms the other in its ability to defend against identified threats. An easy way to distinguish between the two is to think of a wireless intrusion detection system as the security camera, while the wireless intrusion prevention system (WIPS) functions like a security guard.
A WIDS passively monitors network traffic, whereas a WIPS takes it further and implements a combination of tasks to fend off cyber threats, including Denial-of-Service (DoS) or man-in-the-middle attacks. Its functions include system management, radio frequency spectrum analysis, disabling rogue devices, and blocking spoofed signals.
How do Wireless Intrusion Detection Systems Work?
Wireless intrusion detection systems use sensors to monitor the radio frequency spectrum used by WiFi technology for unusual patterns or behaviors that indicate a network threat. One such unusual behavior is the sudden appearance of a rogue access point, which indicates that an entity or person has connected to a network without consent and, likely, with malicious intent.
The network intrusion detection device then alerts the network system provider of a potentially dangerous wireless device, such as a smartphone, nearby. It’s important to note that WIDS programs detect Bluetooth and WiFi signals. This means that devices that operate on cellular signals, such as mobile hotspots or BYOD devices, may fall through the cracks.
Business leaders must, therefore, embed a multi-layered security approach to protect their people, assets, and infrastructure. No measure is 100% perfect on its own, but with multiple security controls and countermeasures, each fills in the gaps that standalone intrusion prevention software may miss.
Threats WIDS Can Detect
Wireless intrusion detection systems are a mainstay in organizations that deal with sensitive information or must comply with regulatory requirements. Industries that rely on intrusion protection devices include government agencies, military organizations, and financial institutions. Wireless detection devices are capable of detecting certain threats faced by these entities, including:
Rogue Access Points
Bad actors may add a rogue or unauthorized WiFi access point to a network (without administrator knowledge) to intercept or steal valuable data.
Network Attacks
Evil twin attacks, Denial-of-Service (DoS) attacks, and man-in-the-middle attacks are companies’ most common network attacks. Modern wireless security software solutions, such as WIDS, alert companies to early warning signs of each attack.
Evil twin attacks are when bad actors set up fake access WiFi points that mimic legitimate access points. This deceives users into connecting to a fraudulent network. Bad actors can then steal passwords or infiltrate further into the network.
Denial-of-service (DoS) attacks occur when an attacker floods a website or network traffic to disrupt normal functioning. The objective of a DoS attack may be to disrupt, protest against, or extort a business and its operations.
A man-of-middle attack is when a hacker inserts themselves between a user and an application or web server–such as through IP spoofing–and eavesdrops on the communications for nefarious purposes.
Sniffing
Sniffing is capturing and monitoring data packets as they are transmitted through the network. Data packets act like ‘envelopes’ that include segments of actual data (such as web traffic or passwords) and sender-receiver information.
Other common threats associated with network security include weak encryption and unauthorized devices. The above attacks engage network interception and can be detected by an intrusion protection device, such as WIDS or WIPS.
Limitations of Wireless Intrusion Detection Systems
WIDS solutions excel at monitoring network threats, but their wireless intrusion detection capabilities face shortcomings when neutralizing the threat to a business.
Similarly, their ability to determine the nature of transmitted content is limited. Wireless detection devices can detect traffic patterns and signal behavior, such as if a normally low-bandwidth device starts transmitting high data volume. However, the WIDS cannot decrypt or inspect the nature of the content, overlooking “hidden” proof of dangerous network activity.
In a business climate where network attacks are becoming more sophisticated, and hackers more aggressive, detection alone isn’t enough. That’s why modern wireless detection devices should be one element of a multi-pronged approach to combat rising threats within today’s wireless landscape.
How Cell Phone Detectors Can Increase the Effectiveness of WIDS
Network hackers target businesses specifically. Business leaders must stay ahead by constantly upgrading their network security approach. Cell phone detectors and wireless intrusion detection systems working in tandem provide the right balance of defensive, detection, and proactive security that protects a company’s most sensitive data and files.
Cell phone detectors can fill in the gaps left by intrusion protection devices. For example, WIDS is involved with network monitoring, which means they cannot detect mobile phones that operate in ‘stealth mode’, or other devices that don’t transmit cellular data, WiFi, or Bluetooth. Advanced hackers rely on various signals to carry out their attacks, including wireless signals, electromagnetic emissions, or even sound waves, emphasizing the need for a dual response.
Cell phone detectors can identify the physical presence of devices, adding location-sensing capabilities to a business’ cybersecurity defense. This enables companies to stay one step ahead of all unauthorized devices–regardless of whether they are connected to the business network.
A cell phone detector helps organizations strengthen the effectiveness of WIDS from the outset, ensuring a multi-layered defense that safeguards against bad actors and hackers, no matter how complex or advanced their methods may be.
Though no business is immune to attacks, cell phone detectors and network intrusion detection solutions together can tilt the odds in your favor. Count on Cellbusters’ Zone Protector as a catalyst for your network security needs.
