WiGLE
WiGLE
One-liner: A public database that maps WiβFi networks and cell towers to approximate geographic locations.
π― What Is It?
WiGLE (Wireless Geographic Logging Engine) aggregates wardriving-style observations of wireless identifiers (e.g., WiβFi BSSIDs) and associates them with latitude/longitude. OSINT practitioners can use it to infer where a given BSSID has been observed.
π€ Why It Matters
- OSINT geolocation: A single BSSID can become a pivot to a neighborhood/city.
- Threat intel / investigations: Helps attribute where wireless infrastructure has appeared.
- Privacy: Broadcasting identifiers can unintentionally leak physical location context.
π¬ How It Works
Core Principles
- Devices observe a WiβFi networkβs BSSID (MAC address) and SSID (name).
- Observations are uploaded with coordinates.
- Queries can return approximate locations where that BSSID was seen.
Technical Deep-Dive
Common workflow:
- Start with a BSSID (often found in posts, configs, or logs)
- Search it on WiGLE
- Use returned coordinates + map view to narrow location
π‘οΈ Detection & Prevention
How to Detect
- Review public exposure of wireless identifiers (posts, screenshots, configs).
- Monitor for doxxing-style OSINT using wireless pivots.
How to Prevent / Mitigate
- Avoid publishing BSSIDs publicly.
- Use safe sharing guidelines for network troubleshooting screenshots/logs.
π Types/Categories
| Type | Description | Example |
|---|---|---|
| WiβFi | Access point observations | BSSID β lat/long |
| Cell | Tower observations | Cell ID β region |
π€ Interview Angles
Common Questions
- "How can a WiβFi BSSID be used for geolocation?"
- "What are the limitations of WiGLE-based geolocation?"
STAR Story
Situation: A public post included a WiβFi identifier.
Task: Estimate whether it revealed a real-world location.
Action: Queried the identifier in WiGLE and cross-checked map results.
Result: Confirmed the location leak and recommended safer posting practices.
β Best Practices
- Treat results as approximate and time-sensitive.
- Validate with other OSINT sources before concluding.
β Common Misconceptions
- "WiGLE gives exact live location" (itβs based on past sightings).