In today's digital age, public Wi-Fi has become an essential order of the day. Whether you are at a coffee shop, airport, restaurant, library, hotel, or other establishment, chances are that you can enjoy free internet services through their public Wi-Fi.
However, while these free public Wi-Fi networks are convenient and appealing to use, they can also leave users vulnerable to cyberattacks. Malicious cyber actors have been known to utilize public Wifis to capture network users' passwords, login credentials, and sensitive information.
Therefore, this article will explore ways to ensure safety when connecting to public Wi-Fi.
Confirm the Wi-Fi Network
One of the first things you can do to stay safe when utilizing public Wi-Fi is to ensure you are connected to the correct network. Cybercriminals often create bogus wireless networks that seem like the official Wi-Fi of the establishment you are in.
For example, a coffee shop called "Café Royale" can have "Café Royale Net" as its official Wi-Fi name. A bad actor could create a fake network with "Café_Royale Net" as its name. Any unwitting customer can unknowingly connect to this bogus network.
This will put every login credentials, password, and sensitive information shared on it in the hands of the cybercriminals. To protect against this, you should always double-check the network name before connecting to any public Wi-Fi.
Avoid Accessing Sensitive Information
When using public Wi-Fi, it's best to avoid accessing or transmitting sensitive information such as social security numbers, credit card details, bank account information, etc. You should also not enter login credentials to access any sensitive account when connected to a public Wi-Fi, be it your workplace network or social media.
For example, if you click here to access your online casino account while connected to a public Wi-Fi, you may still be exposing your details to malicious actors even with the platform's robust security measures. So, instead of putting the platform's encryption security to the test, it is safer to ensure that your sensitive credentials and information are not at risk in the first place.
Use a VPN
One of the best ways to minimize the risk surrounding the sale of public Wi-Fi is to utilize a virtual private network (VPN). Aside from masking your IP address, a primary function of VPN is encrypting all data that passes to and from your device. This adds an extra layer of security to your connection with public Wi-Fi and prevents any lurking cybercriminals from being able to intercept your data.
The internet is filled with multiple reputable VPN services you can utilize. While some of these VPNs offer free services, you may have to pay a subscription fee to get the best security features, which is usually affordable.
Use Two-factor or Multi-factor Authentication
Another way to protect yourself when using public Wi-Fi is to use two or multi-factor authentication on all services and platforms that offer it. Multi-factor authentication provides a second step in the login procedure for relevant accounts, usually a call or code texted to your phone or supplied by an app. Using multi-factor authentication adds an extra layer of security to your network.
This way, even if cyber snoops manage to gain your passwords and login credentials while you are using public Wi-Fi, they won't be able to access your account without the relevant authentication.
Turn off Auto-connect and Forget the Network
Most smartphones, laptops, and tablet devices have automatic connectivity features. This enables devices to conveniently connect to nearby familiar Wi-Fi networks without having to do it manually.
While this can be good for trusted private networks, it can put you at risk with public Wi-Fi as it often connects automatically with networks, especially the ones you have previously connected with.
So, it's essential to turn off this feature and always keep it off on your device. As an extra precaution, always check the "forget network" option within your device's settings after using a public Wi-Fi network. This way, your device won't connect to any network without your awareness.
Use Anti-Virus, Firewalls, and Keep your Operating System Updated
Another way to stay secure when using public Wi-Fi networks is to use anti-virus and firewalls. A firewall on laptop devices acts as a barrier that protects your network from malware threats. Anti-virus programs help detect and quarantine any malware that might have gotten onto your mobile or laptop device.
It's also crucial to constantly update your operating system. This way, you can have all the latest security patches to protect your device from any threats that public Wi-Fi can pose.
Use your Mobile Data Instead
Perhaps the best way to stay safe with public Wi-Fi is not to use it at all and instead use your mobile device's direct network. This is because even if you take all the necessary safeguards, you may never know if cybercriminals have found ways to circumvent them.
However, if you have to use public Wi-Fi to reduce the cost of your device's plan data, you should consider using your device's network whenever you need to access or transmit sensitive information. This includes social networking, online shopping, online bank services, etc.
Final Thoughts
Public Wi-Fi is a popular convenience that everyone enjoys using. Whether you are at a coffee shop, restaurant, library, or other establishments, you will probably use public Wi-Fi to connect to the internet at some point. However, it's essential to be aware of the risks and take the necessary steps highlighted in this article to stay safe.