The MITM Attack and How Fortinet APs Prevent It on Wi-Fi
Wi-Fi Security and MITM Attack Prevention
Fortinet APs are essential for protecting your business from hackers who intercept your Wi-Fi traffic. Cybercriminals are getting savvier, and if your Wi-Fi isn’t secure, they can steal your data without you ever knowing. The good news is that Fortinet APs have powerful front-line security that can catch and prevent these attacks. Let’s get into it, step by step.
What is a MITM Attack?
A Man-in-the-Middle (MITM) attack occurs when a hacker secretly intercepts and relays messages between two parties, making them believe they are talking to each other. That means they can read sensitive information, steal login credentials, or even alter communications.
It’s like sending an email to a coworker, except someone is intercepting, modifying, or deleting it before it reaches the intended recipient.
MITM Attack Techniques
- Evil Twin Attack – The hacker sets up a bogus Wi-Fi hotspot with the same name as your authentic connection, deceiving users into connecting and capturing their data.
- Packet Sniffing – Cybercriminals deploy tools to capture unencrypted packets traveling over the network.
- Session Hijacking – The attacker takes over a user’s active session cookie, allowing them to log into accounts without entering a password.
- SSL Stripping – The attacker removes encrypted HTTPS connections, reducing them to unencrypted HTTP, exposing sensitive information.
These attacks may occur anywhere — hotels, coffee shops, or even offices, if proper precautionary measures are not taken.
How Wi-Fi is Vulnerable
Wi-Fi networks, particularly public or misconfigured Wi-Fi networks, are the most susceptible to MITM attacks. Here are some reasons why:
- No Encryption – When Wi-Fi traffic isn’t encrypted, hackers can see what’s being transmitted.
- Weak or Default Passwords – Many networks use weak passwords or default credentials that are easy for attackers to guess.
- Rogue Access Points – A hacker can set up a fake AP with the same name as a legitimate network, tricking users into connecting.
- Old Firmware – Outdated router firmware with security weaknesses can be easily exploited.
- No User Authentication – Open networks without authentication make it easy for attackers to gain access.
If you rely on Wi-Fi for internal communication, transactions, or sensitive data, you need a foolproof solution to prevent MITM attacks. That’s where Fortinet Access Points (APs) come in.
Fortinet’s Anti-MITM Features
Built-in Advanced Security Features in Fortinet Access Points (APs) help prevent MITM attacks. Here’s how they enhance Wi-Fi security and shut down hackers:
1. Wireless Intrusion Prevention System (WIPS)
Fortinet APs include WIPS to proactively scan airwaves for rogue APs, Evil Twin attacks, and unauthorized access points. It blocks suspicious activity before harmful actions occur.
2. WPA3 Encryption and Authentication
- WPA3 Encryption – Fortinet APs leverage WPA3, the latest and most robust encryption standard that prevents data decryption by hackers.
- 802.1X Authentication – Ensures only authorized users can connect, preventing unauthorized access to sensitive data.
3. Rogue AP Detection & Mitigation
- Scans for unauthorized access points and blocks threats in real-time.
- Detects spoofed SSIDs (fake networks using the same name) and prevents users from connecting to them.
4. Blocking Man-in-the-Middle Attacks
- Security features detect and block attempts to intercept communication.
- Deep Packet Inspection (DPI) ensures no packet tampering is happening in real time.
5. Secure Cloud Management
With Fortinet Cloud Management, businesses gain real-time visibility into their Wi-Fi infrastructure and can fix security vulnerabilities before an attack occurs.
6. Automatic Firmware Updates
Outdated systems are easy targets for hackers. Fortinet APs provide automatic security patches to address vulnerabilities before they can be exploited.
Security Solutions by PJ Networks
At PJ Networks, we know securing Wi-Fi goes beyond setting a strong password. Businesses need enterprise-grade protection, and Fortinet delivers robust security features.
How We Keep Businesses Safe from MITM Attacks
- Wi-Fi Security Audit – We review your Wi-Fi configuration and identify vulnerabilities.
- Fortinet APs Deployment – Our team deploys and configures Fortinet Access Points for maximum security.
- Network Monitoring & Management – 24/7 monitoring detects and mitigates threats before they cause harm.
- Security Awareness Training – We educate employees on identifying fake networks and cyber threats.
- Ongoing Penetration Testing – We simulate real-world attack scenarios to keep businesses secure.
We provide businesses with a secure and hacker-proof Wi-Fi environment using expert support and cutting-edge technology.
Conclusion
It is essential to secure your Wi-Fi from MITM attacks to protect your data. Cybercriminals constantly search for vulnerabilities, but using Fortinet APs and strong security practices keeps you ahead of threats.
Wi-Fi security is not optional — it’s critical. With expert solutions from PJ Networks, your enterprise won’t have to worry about attackers trying to hijack your data.
