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.
-
Q&A: What's the safest way to pay a bill online while traveling?Read More
A virtual private network can help you pay bills securely when traveling. Plus, you have other fairly safe ways to pay that bill — even if you don't have a VPN.
-
Q&A: Is it safe to connect to airplane Wi-Fi while traveling?Read More
Using in-flight Wi-Fi could expose your personal information. A VPN can make it safer to use inflight Wi-Fi, or any other public Wi-Fi, while you're traveling.
-
Your travel guide to public Wi-Fi, security and privacyRead More
When you travel, public Wi-Fi can increase privacy and security risks. Learn how to protect yourself against cybercriminals when you’re traveling.
-
How to avoid public Wi-Fi woes on a business tripRead More
Now 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...
-
What is a man-in-the-middle attack?Read More
A 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.
-
Public Wi-Fi security: Why public Wi-Fi is vulnerable to attackRead More
Your personal info can be vulnerable to attack on public Wi-Fi. Here’s how to help stay safe.
-
Why hackers love public Wi-FiRead More
A 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 More
Youre 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...
-
The dos and don'ts of using public Wi-FiRead More
Public 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.
-
How to speed up Wi-Fi in airplanesRead More
Airplane Wi-Fi driving you insane? Read on to learn why it’s so slow, and how to fix it.
-
What is VoIP?Read More
VoIP 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...
-
How does a VPN work?Read More
Using a virtual private network, or VPN, can help protect your online privacy, data, and identity. Here’s how.
-
#30SecTech: What is a VPN?Read More
Theres 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' SafetyRead More
With 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.
