Mobile and wireless technologies : security and risk factors

Mobile and wireless technologies have evolved beyond recognition since the first radio signals were transmitted by pioneers including Nikola Tesla and Guglielmo Marconi in the late nineteenth century. Radio waves have been used since then as a basis for telephony, audio and video broadcast, and navigation and radar systems. More recently, the advent of mobile phones and similar devices has transformed business and social interactions. Today, many of us use mobile access to the internet to communicate in real time across the globe, to access business and government services online, to shop, view, read, search, explore and even simulate physical activities. Internet access no longer depends on a wired system such as a modem connected to a telephone landline – rather, it can be achieved using a mobile enabled device whenever and wherever a mobile access point is available. Such access points or hot spots are now widely available in airports, hotels, educational institutions and other public buildings. Increasing numbers of wireless networks are being installed in commercial buildings and private homes. With increasing mobile access to wireless networks, the demarcation between public and private space is being redefined. This has important implications in terms of security for those who make a mobile access point available and for those who use it. The security and risk factors associated with mobile and wireless technologies need to be understood and addressed to ensure safe and secure business and personal use of mobile technologies.