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On a typical Linux distro, what information do WiFi access points get when you search for and use another AP? (lemmy.ml)
submitted 5 months ago by to c/privacy@lemmy.ml
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Let's say, I sit down in a mall, open my laptop and connect to a secured mobile hotspot. Then I do it again next week after a reboot. What information would a nearby shop or a passive malicious hacker be able to find about my device? Does my device send out identifying information before joining, like a MAC address? Is this persistent, or randomized?

I intentionally haven't specified a distro, so if something only applies to some network managers, give some details.

Bonus points: what about Android phones?

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[–] 1 point 5 months ago (1 child)

And track you, Cisco has had the ability to track MAC addresses over their APs on a map for 2 decades now.

Also track you over multiple networks- most only care about the SSID- so if you've ever connected to "eduroam" you can be tracked across multiple campuses.

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