How to stay safe on public Wi-Fi
You don’t leave your front door unlocked. So why would you use public Wi-Fi networks without protection? Defend your private data from cybercriminals in public places with these five tips.
Stay safe on public Wi-Fi networks by avoiding significant risks
If you listen to The Kim Komando Show and Kim’s podcasts, you know about digital dangers. Accessing the internet via public Wi-Fi networks can heighten these risks even more.
Cybercriminals use public Wi-Fi to spy on unsuspecting users like you. They’ll create fake networks called “honeypots” to steal your info. Despite these risks, many people still use public Wi-Fi to bank and shop.
Sound familiar? Doing this makes it easy for bad guys to steal your identity. They could steal your bank password, credit card details or Social Security number.
You’re not safe while traveling, either. A whopping 25% of tourists have been hacked through public Wi-Fi while abroad, TravelPulse reports.
It’s time to upgrade your security strategy. The next time you want to connect to public Wi-Fi, follow these four steps.
1. Be cautious
Public Wi-Fi is open to everyone, which makes it a prime target for criminals. And every device is susceptible, whether it’s your laptop, tablet or smartphone. Several threats lurk behind links and tucked into programs that seem legitimate otherwise.
Therefore, you need an offensive strategy whenever you join a public network. Here are some things you should be skeptical of:
- The network itself: Just because a public Wi-Fi network pops up and asks if you want to join doesn’t mean it’s legitimate. If you’re at a coffee shop or hotel, ask an employee for the specific name of their Wi-Fi network. Scammers will sometimes create networks called “Coffee Shop” or “Hotel Guest” to make you believe you’re connecting to the real thing when, actually, you’re not.
- Links: Scammers can make links look enticing — but it’s all a trick. Look for red flags like outrageous claims or download prompts.
Here’s a little trick. To see what’s hiding behind a hyperlink, see what shows up in the bottom left-hand corner of your screen when you hover your mouse over it.
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