Wi-Fi
How to surf safely on public WiFi
A free Wi-Fi connection can seem like a lifesaver when you’re on the go. Public Wi-Fi can be found in popular public places like airports, coffee shops, malls, restaurants, and hotels — and it allows you to access the Internet for free. Of course, we all know jumping on a free Internet connection can be a convenient way to access online accounts, catch up on work, and check emails while on the go. These “hotspots” are so widespread and common that people frequently connect to them without thinking twice. However, the security risks should not be forgotten.
If you decide to use public Wi-Fi, just be aware that you could be making yourself an easy target for hackers — and putting your information and more at risk. Although it sounds harmless to log on and check your social media account or browse some news articles, reading e-mail, checking your bank account, or performing any activity that requires a login is risky business on public Wi-Fi.
The average free public Wi-Fi isn’t secure and just because you may need a password to log in, it doesn’t mean your online activities are encrypted. Various reasons make public Wi-Fi susceptible to attack. One issue has to do with the encryption protocol used by some wireless networks. Another reason has to do with the possibility of joining a rogue Wi-Fi hotspot.
While the best way to protect your information is to avoid accessing sensitive information or performing sensitive transactions when connected to public Wi-Fi, there are additional measures you should be aware of. These articles can help you learn more about the risks and what else you can do to be safe when surfing on Wi-Fi anywhere.
-
Why hackers love public Wi-Fi
Read MoreA free Wi-Fi connection in a public space can seem like a lifesaver when youre on the go. But if you decide to use public Wi-Fi, just be aware that you could be making yourself an easy target for...
-
How safe is surfing on 4G vs. WiFi?
Read MoreYoure probably familiar with 3G, 4G, and Wi-Fi hotspots. In todays increasingly connected mobile world, there are a variety of ways to get and stay connected to the Internet, but whats really the...
-
How to speed up Wi-Fi in airplanes
Read MoreAirplane Wi-Fi driving you insane? Read on to learn why it’s so slow, and how to fix it.
-
What is VoIP?
Read MoreVoIP is an acronym for voice over Internet Protocol. That means any phone call that takes place over the Internet, rather than on landlines or through mobile towers. This alternative to traditional...
-
The dos and don'ts of using public Wi-Fi
Read MorePublic Wi-Fi is available just about everywhere, from the local coffee shop to the hotels and airports you visit while traveling. Wi-Fi has made our lives a little easier, but it also poses security risks.
-
What is a man-in-the-middle attack?
Read MoreA man-in-the-middle attack is like eavesdropping. When data is sent between a computer and a server, a cybercriminal can get in between and spy. A man-in-the-middle attack requires three players: the victim, the entity with which the victim is trying to communicate, and the “man in the middle” who’s intercepting the victim’s communications.
-
How does a VPN work?
Read MoreUsing a virtual private network, or VPN, can help protect your online privacy, data, and identity. Here’s how.
-
Public Wi-Fi security: Why public Wi-Fi is vulnerable to attack
Read MoreYour personal info can be vulnerable to attack on public Wi-Fi. Here’s how to help stay safe.
-
Your summer vacation guide to mobile device and public Wi-Fi security
Read MoreVacation may be a time for rest and relaxation, but your mobile devices likely wont be getting a break. Now that smartphones and tablets are part of our daily lives, we spend more time than ever...
-
How to avoid public Wi-Fi woes on a business trip
Read MoreNow that summer is here, its not just families that will be filling airports and hotels. While other people may be vacationing, business travelers will continue to work their way around the country...
-
#30SecTech: What is a VPN?
Read MoreTheres a good reason hackers love free public Wi-Fi. Its because they can easily access information on unsecured Wi-Fi networks. So when youre in a coffee shop or an airport checking your emails or...
-
Kids' Safety
Read MoreWith the right information at your fingertips, you can make better decisions for your child’s cyber safety. Read articles about online security for your family.
