# Evil Twin

A fraudulent Wi-Fi access point set up to mimic a legitimate one, tricking users into connecting so their traffic can be intercepted.

An **evil twin[↗](/evil-twin)** is a fraudulent Wi-Fi access point set up to look identical to a legitimate one, often using the same network name, in a coffee shop, airport, or hotel. Unsuspecting users connect to it thinking it's the genuine network, giving the attacker a direct path to intercept their traffic.

Once connected to an evil twin, a victim's unencrypted data, including login credentials and browsing activity, passes directly through the attacker's equipment. Verifying network names with staff, avoiding sensitive transactions on public Wi-Fi, and using a VPN are effective ways to stay protected.