Lifestyle Tip: The Perils of Public Wi-Fi
Public Wi-Fi, often found in airports, coffee shops, hospitals, hotels and other places, is very convenient. However, it’s essential to recognize that public Wi-Fi poses significant security risks, as hackers have the potential to steal your data.
Public Wi-Fi Data Theft and Rogue Hotspots
While more businesses and companies are trying to secure public Wi-Fi, many may lack encryption, which means that hackers can easily access and read any data transmitted. Hackers can also use Man-in-the-Middle Attacks, which means they gain access to communications between the public Wi-Fi network and your device. Additionally, hackers are now creating rogue hotspots, which are fake networks that closely resemble legitimate public Wi-Fi, tricking users into connecting and stealing their data.
Public Wi-Fi Malware Infections
Public Wi-Fi may be vulnerable to malware infections. Experienced hackers can easily inject malware code into devices that connect to a public network that has a malware infection.
Many public Wi-Fi networks will lead you to a website where you can connect. Unfortunately, hackers can either inject malware code into these sites or redirect users to a phishing site that encourages them to download software on their devices. Hackers can also encourage people to download fake apps that can control or steal data from their devices.
Staying Safe While Using Public Wi-Fi
There may be times when you can’t avoid using public Wi-Fi due to limited coverage. For example, your flight gets cancelled and you have work to do on your laptop, or you’re trying to work in your hotel room. If you must use public Wi-Fi, we recommend following these tips:
- Auto-Connect – Turn off the auto-join hotspot feature on your devices. It’s better to manually connect so you can potentially identify any phishing sites or strange redirects.
- Sensitive Transactions – Do not access sensitive sites on public Wi-Fi, such as banking, financial or even shopping sites. Treat public Wi-Fi as though your data is public and no longer private. Avoid entering passwords or accessing password manager programs.
- Software Updates – Always keep your software up to date on your devices, as updates include valuable security and malware patches to help protect against hackers gaining access to your devices.
- Antivirus Software – Always use antivirus software on your devices. If you’re a Home Telecom customer, you can download Trend Micro™ Titanium™ Maximum Security Software free.
- Multi-Factor Authentication – If you have the option to enable multi-factor authentication, do so for all your accounts, as this adds an extra layer of protection should hackers attempt to gain access to your data and accounts.
- VPN – Using a VPN (Virtual Private Network) is a great way to protect your devices and data. A VPN encrypts your traffic, which makes it difficult for hackers to gain access to your data. PCMag has several great recommendations for the best VPNs. If you’re looking for a reliable VPN for mobile devices, CNET also has recommendations.
Home Telecom’s SmartTown
Home Telecom’s SmartTown offers a reliable, safe community public Wi-Fi option. Home Telecom internet customers can register to gain free access to SmartTown public Wi-Fi, allowing you to travel through your community and connect to secure hotspots easily. Learn more about Home Telecom’s SmartTown, including availability.