Don't Travel with Hackers! How to Stay Safe on Public WiFi

Summary: At some point, people who log on to the internet when they’re on the go ask a familiar question: Is public WiFi safe? Learn what users need to know about the dangers of public WiFi and how to protect their data: What makes public WiFi risky, the techniques hackers use and the steps everyone can take to reduce the chances that personal information, including passwords and financial details, remain secure.

What Are the Dangers of Public WiFi?

Connecting from home or the office affords web users the ability to control most cyber security concerns. They can get as many layers of protection as are required to secure their private data. But when they’re out and about, using public WiFi at airports, train stations, waiting rooms, cafes and the like, they’re increasingly vulnerable to cyberattacks.

Is public WiFi convenient? Yes, it’s very convenient. Is it a great way to pass the time, catch up on work and answer emails? Of course. Is public WiFi safe? No.

That’s because public WiFi is very convenient for cybercriminals. Numerous “off-the-shelf” hacking apps are easy for hackers to purchase and so user-friendly that almost anyone, with or without a tech background, can learn how to hack cell phones, laptops and other devices through public WiFi. Understanding the dangers of public WiFi allows users to address them with a personalized cyber security strategy.

Q: What are the risks of using public Wi-Fi networks?

A: Public WiFi networks, such as those in coffee shops, airports or hotels, are often unsecured, which means that data transmitted over them can be easily intercepted. Hackers can use tools to eavesdrop on internet activity, steal login credentials, intercept financial transactions or inject malware onto devices.

How to Stay Safe on Public WiFi

One approach is to avoid public WiFi. To do so, there are two readily available options:

• Turn Off WiFi and Use Mobile Data – When using a cell phone to connect to the internet, consider using mobile data instead of WiFi. Mobile data is encrypted and hard to hack.
• Use VPNs (Virtual Private Networks) – A VPN offers a strong layer of mobile cyber security by using “tunneling” technology. VPNs create a private “network within the network that effectively hides the IP address location and automatically encrypts data.

Completely avoiding the internet while away from the home or office isn’t a realistic option for most people, but there are steps anyone can take to make public access WiFi safer. They are:

• Log in and Out as Quickly as Possible: Never stay logged in for long periods
• Don’t Conduct Financial Transactions: Logging into any site or app with high-value information is not safe
• Don’t Ignore Browser Security Warnings: Many browsers present warnings against downloading malware or connecting with suspicious websites. Heed those warnings and abort the actions that prompt them.
• Do Not Reuse the Same Password: Using the same password to log into a variety of websites can provide hackers who use automated software with an all-access pass to multiple online accounts
• Stick to HTTPS websites: These sites encrypt the connection. Look for “https://” in the address bar (the “s” is for security)
• Turn Off Sharing Features: Disable file sharing, printer sharing and public folder access on devices
• Use Multi-Factor Authentication: This adds an extra layer of security when logging in to important accounts in case credentials are stolen
• Don’t Use Automatic Settings to Join WiFi: Make sure devices are not set to join “Any Available” WiFi. Controlling logins to public WiFi networks helps protect devices from a cyberattack

Q: Are there any alternatives to using public WiFi for internet access on the go?

A: Yes. For a safer alternative, use a phone's mobile data or set up a personal hotspot. Cellular networks are more secure than public WiFi and are much harder for hackers to intercept. Mobile routers or prepaid data plans are options for portable internet access when traveling or working remotely. You can also use a VPN.

How Do Public WiFi Precautions Fit into a Larger Cyber Security Plan?

The best cyber security uses layers of protection. There are so many moving parts to securing a small business network and connected devices such as phones, laptops and tablets. Unfortunately, most small and midsized businesses (SMBs) have neither the time nor the expertise to handle network cyber security on their own. Enlisting professional IT services will help determine the right level of protection and security protocols to protect company data even while outside the office. In addition, they can assess other IT vulnerabilities and suggest appropriate ways to improve productivity while enhancing data protection.

Q: What is a "man-in-the-middle" attack, and how does it affect public WiFi users?

A: A "man-in-the-middle" (MITM) attack occurs when a hacker secretly intercepts communication between two parties—such as a device and a website. On public WiFi, attackers can position themselves between a device and the connection point, capturing everything sent and received, including sensitive information such as usernames, passwords, credit card numbers and personal messages.

Is Public WiFi Safe?

Most public WiFi networks are not secure, especially if they do not require a password or are open-access. Even if a password is required, the same credentials are usually shared among many users, which leaves data vulnerable.

Every device connected to a network, anywhere in the world, is vulnerable to the dangers of the public will. That makes mobile device management an integral part of how to stay safe on public WiFi. Computers and devices must also have established security protocols and defenses in place.

With the expanded use of remote and work-from-home employees, having a team of IT experts to support systems, train staff, update software, inspect and monitor hardware and provide iron-clad cyber security for all your devices and networks.

Contact your IT provider to suggest ways to protect business data while outside the office. IT support companies can suggest affordable options for small business networks.