US Govt Wi-Fi networks could be hacked by a user on a park bench

A HACKER on a park bench could log onto dozens of US government computer networks thanks to slipshod security standards at many agencies, according to a new report.

The report, by the US Government Accountability Office (GAO) found that few government agencies can ensure that their wireless networks are protected from unauthorised access.

Government agencies shouldn't set up high-speed wireless broadband networks, known as until they have figured out a way to secure them, according to guidelines issued by the National Institute for Standards and Technology.

But nine of the 24 major agencies had not issued wireless-security plans, while many others provided little guidance for acceptable use, the GAO found.

Thirteen agencies did not require their WiFi networks to be set up in a secure manner, and most did not monitor their wireless activity, the report said.