What is a Fake AP?

   A "Fake" AP (Access Point) commonly confused with a "Rogue" AP is an access point created by a malicious source that disguises as an authorized AP and allows for access to file sniffing and enumeration.  The way it works is the fake AP creates a hole into a network upon being accessed which allows the attacker to gain complete access of the data and files within.  The common ethical use of such an AP is to counteract the infiltration of an attacker.
   Although very similar, fake APs require more extensive methods of detection and prevention than is required of rogue APs.  See "Prevention and Detection of Fake APs" for more details.