G20 2014 cyber attacks: Experts warn that hackers could create chaos Traffic congestion in Peel St, South Brisbane. Picture: Patria Jannides Source: News Corp Australia THEY could steal sensitive information through dodgy emails. They could take control of wi-fi networks. They could even throw the city into chaos by messing with traffic lights. Experts warn that Australia will be at a heightened risk of cyber attacks next week when Brisbane hosts the G20 Leaders Summit. The Defence Department's spy agency, the Australian Signals Directorate (ASD), has warned that the Queensland capital's chairmanship of the G20 has made our computer networks "a more attractive target for cyber espionage or attack." The ASD says businesses and government agencies have been targeted in the past due to their involvement in high-profile events. "Targeting of high profile events such as the G20 by state-sponsored or other foreign adversaries, cyber criminals and issue-motivated groups is a real and persistent threat," the ASD warns in its official G20 cyber security advice. Cyber attacks are a way for groups to protest against G20 leaders without travelling to Brisbane. Previous attacks have involved the use of malicious emails dressed up to look like they are from legitimate sources when in fact they are designed to compromise computer networks and steal sensitive information. Cyber attackers could also target public wi-fi networks, the ASD warns. CREST Australia, which provides cyber and information security advice, says protest groups could turn to online attacks, because they are cheaper than flying in protesters to physically target next week's G20 event. Spokesman Greg Rudd says that with so many world leaders in Brisbane, the G20 could prove an irresistible target for hackers. They would love to get into the traffic light system, for example, and disrupt that. What they are after, really, is free international media," he told the ABC today. US President Barack Obama and Russian President Vladimir Putin are both expected to attend the G20 Leaders Summit next week. The ASD has issued a list of advice to help businesses avoid falling victim, including turfing things such as USB sticks, which are commonly handed out as gifts at events like the G20. Past experience has shown they can be used to deliver malicious software into business's computer networks and secretly steal sensitive data. Businesses are also advised to: ● Be wary of G20-themed emails that encourage recipients to download files, attachments or visit websites "for more information" ● Look out for malicious content. Signs you compromised your computer network can include attachments that contain no content, or ones that flicker or flash when opened ● Avoid using web-based email when communicating sensitive information ● Don't use any removable media devices such as USB sticks and CD/DVD disks unless they are yours ● Avoid using public wi-fi networks to stop savvy hackers from stealing your information Businesses are urged to protect themselves from cyber attacks. Originally published as Hackers could create traffic chaos