Are you using free WiFi? If yes, read this to stay safe

WiFi finder, a popular software application capable of identifying and analyzing WiFi networks, exposed the Wi-Fi network passwords for more than two million networks, TechCrunch reported. The app has been downloaded more than 100,000 times so far. The Android app allows users to access the internet through free WiFi anywhere in the world.

As per the report, the database of more than two million network passwords was left exposed and unprotected, letting anyone download, access the database. The app doesn't require users to obtain permission from the network owner, exposing Wi-Fi networks to unauthorized access.

Image Credit: Google Play

The exposed database contains - Wi-Fi names, precise geolocation, basic service set identifier (BSSID), and network password stored in plaintext. The database was first spotted by Sanyam Jain, a security researcher and a member of the GDI Foundation, who further reported the findings to TechCrunch.

The security researcher and TechCrunch tried to contact the developer but were unsuccessful. They then contacted the host, DigitalOcean, which immediately took down the database. "We notified the user and have taken the [server] hosting the exposed database offline," a spokesperson told TechCrunch.

More about WiFi finder

The app also works without an internet connection. WiFi Finder requires users to give the app access to their locations, Wi-Fi connection information, contacts and other details.

Image Credit: Google Play

The key features of the app include:

• Connect to Wi-Fi hotspots
• Map with Wi-Fi hotspots
• Search by address, city, country, places name
• Stores Wi-Fi password and credentials
• Search nearby hotspots
• Offline work
• Save a hotspot