Ways to Shield Yourself while using Public WiFi

How to protect yourself while using public WiFi

In the modern world public Wi-Fi seems crucial but few people are aware of the serious security risks it brings. You are a hacker's dream come true if you are using open networks. There are some things you should never do when making use of a public Wi-Fi connection whether you're just enjoying a little online browsing or trying to get some work done.

Is it reliable to use public Wi-Fi?

Any Wi-Fi network connection carries some risk and cybersecurity is all about reducing those risks. It's important to research free Wi-Fi networks before accessing one as some are riskier than others.

First be sure that any free WiFi network appears to be authentic. Suppose you connect to the "Free Airport Wi-Fi" network while at an airport. How can you be assured that this isn't a hotspot that fraudulent activity using man-in-the-middle (MITM) assaults has set up?

Wireless network names and passwords are typically posted on signs in airports, cafes and other locations that frequently provide free Wi-Fi. Make sure you're connecting to a reliable network at all times. If you are seeking to connect another device you may always snap a picture of the network details using your phone.

Additionally you want to be aware of the variations between unsecured and protected networks. Any network that permits users to connect without requiring a password can be referred to be unsecured. Typically these networks don't have the common security precautions to keep your online data safe.

To connect to a secure network you should need a password. some networks may also require you to register for an account or accept terms of service. However this is not a guarantee that the connection you are utilising is secure. You should scan the network after connecting to make sure there are no security flaws. For instance a little check of your connection on iOS or Mac will reveal whether or not it is employing obsolete security types.

There are several things you should never do when using public Wi-Fi even if you're sure the network you're using is as safe. Open networks provide an accessible target for hackers and it might be hard to figure out the main risks associated with utilising public Wi-Fi until it's too late.

Things Not Recommended When Connected to Public WiFi:

1. Avoid logging into any account that asks for a password.

Never enter personal information on a public Wi-Fi network including passwords, email addresses or usernames. Hackers may use this data to obtain access to your accounts or to launch identity theft or other attacks using your personal information.

Don't bother attempting to access social media platforms, email accounts or anything else that requires a username and password. As long as you don't have to sign in using social networking apps is usually safe but keep in mind that hackers might be watching you.

2. Avoid Making a New Account

It's one thing to log into accounts that already exist but opening a new account while utilising public Wi-Fi could provide hackers access straight away. This is especially risky if you're creating a new account and entering a lot of personal data including names, residences, jobs, payment information etc.

Any activity involving the creation of new accounts or handling of sensitive data should only be done on private, secure networks.

3. Never Validate Your Identity

Authorities internet providers and other organisations may occasionally request identification verification from you. Imagine that when you launch your preferred social media app when visiting a foreign nation it prompts you to provide authentication. This is a standard security measure to ensure that the person attempting to access your account is you and not a stranger from another country.

Despite how tempting it may seem avoid utilising public Wi-Fi networks such as those at hotels or Airbnb to confirm your identity. You do not want to provide hackers access to any of the data (passports, government IDs, biometric data, etc.) that is needed to authenticate identities.

4. Never Submit Your Payment Information

It's best to avoid using public Wi-Fi for online purchasing. Any payment information you input during the checkout process is at risk of phishing, keylogging, man-in-the-middle attacks and other techniques.

If you need have to buy an urgent purchase use your phone's mobile data to make a hotspot where you can connect more devices. It's preferable to purchase for a local SIM card or find out what the roaming costs are for the minute or so it takes to safely enter your payment details even if you're travelling abroad.

5. Online banking should be avoided.

Giving hackers full access to your bank account is far more risky than providing them with your payment details. Cybercriminals may be able to remove you from this type of area by moving all of your money into one of their accounts so you never want to take a chance on it.

Above all never use public Wi-Fi to access an online banking browser account. Although they're not completely safe, native mobile banking apps are far safer than websites and web apps.

Primarily, ensure that you're utilising the legitimate software as employing clone apps is one of the most popular methods for account hacking. When setting up or logging into your account for the first time always download banking apps and do it on a secure network. Utilise the mobile security features that your bank offers such as two-factor authentication and any additional security measures to ensure your safety.

Using a secure network is the only method to do online banking safely, even with the most recent security features activated. Your bank balance, account number, sort code and any password digits are things you don't want hackers to have.

6. Avoid Working From Home

The COVID-19 epidemic peaked about the time that remote working became popular. However many skilled remote workers as well as newbies may be unaware of the security hazards associated with working online via networks that are not connected to their place of employment.

Hopefully if your network is private and safe working from home shouldn't be too difficult. But as soon as you go into a coworking space or café you have to rely on an unsafe public internet connection. These are also the networks that cybercriminals like to attack particularly in light of the growing popularity of remote work.

7. Keep Your Device In Your Hands at All Times

In public places never leave any equipment alone especially if it's linked to an open network. For hackers, phones, laptops and storage devices are like gold mines. You never know what a hacker might have done with your gadget by the time you get back even if they don't steal it while you're away.

8. Protect Yourself When Using Public WiFi

Read articles browse the web anonymously and go to secure websites. When using a public network you run the danger of performing anything that deals with sensitive or personal data about you. Please do yourself a favor and hold onto the crucial documents until you have access to a reliable, secure private network.