How are shopkeepers getting the MAC address of wifi enabled smartphones?

Question

It is clear that some big malls are tracking all the wifi-enabled mobile phones before they are connected to the network... How can this be done?

I have a similar issue... how to get the MAC address of a mobile phone when it comes near my network but is not connected to it.

score 8 · Answer 1 · answered Mar 26 '14 at 07:10

8

Most WiFi enabled devices broadcast their Mac address when probing for networks to join in the vicinity.

By placing your own WiFi device in promiscuous/listening mode and utilizing a tool like Aircrack-ng, you can see and record all broadcast traffic enabling you to see if a device with a specific MAC address comes within earshot of your listening device.

See: Is your smartphone broadcasting your movements when you shop?

answered Mar 26 '14 at 07:10

ilikebeets

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with this am able to see what are the wifi signals available in that range...but how can i know the mobile phones available in my wifi range – spartan Mar 26 '14 at 08:15
@spartan: See http://security.stackexchange.com/a/54068/884 – Piskvor left the building Mar 26 '14 at 10:41

How are shopkeepers getting the MAC address of wifi enabled smartphones?

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