A 42-year-old Australian man faces charges for orchestrating an “evil twin” scam that used fake free WiFi networks to steal personal data from unsuspecting users at airports in Perth, Melbourne, and Adelaide
According to a report from news.com.au, the man set up devices in various locations, including airports and domestic flights, to create “evil twin” copies of legitimate WiFi networks.
Authorities claim to have retrieved personal data from numerous individuals, with ongoing forensic analysis of the seized devices.
The man allegedly operated a device that offered free WiFi, directing users to a counterfeit webpage when they attempted to connect. Users were prompted to log in using their email or social media credentials, which the man then stored on his devices. This potentially gave him access to further personal information, including online communications, stored media, and banking details.
The purported scam was uncovered in April when an airline reported a suspicious WiFi network during a domestic flight, prompting police involvement.
