Is it dangerous to use public wifi?
One of the most convenient things about connecting to the Internet through your computer, tablet, or smartphone is being able to tap into public WiFi from pretty much anywhere. These days, there are WiFi hotspots available all across the country, so you’re practically never without Internet access. However, it’s a smart move to be cautious when it comes to connecting to public WiFi. When you’re tapping into an unknown hotspot, you could potentially be putting your data — and the security of things like your bank accounts, your passwords, and your identity — at risk. Even if a public WiFi hotspot looks secure, you might still miss the small red flags that signal trouble.
Let's take a look at how it affects your privacy……..
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. These “hotspots” are so widespread and common that people frequently connect to them without thinking twice. (Because everyone needs free internet) Although it sounds harmless to log on and check your social media account or browse some news articles, everyday activities that require a login — like reading e-mail or checking your bank account — could be risky business on public Wi-Fi.
Risks while using public wifi
The problem with public Wi-Fi is that there are a tremendous number of risks that go along with these networks. While business owners may believe they’re providing a valuable service to their customers, chances are the security on these networks is lax or nonexistent.
Malicious Publics wifi
In man-in-the-middle attacks, bad actors set up a malicious Wi-Fi network or take control of a compromised Wi-Fi network. When you connect to the Wi-Fi network, the attacker can see everything your computer is transmitting over Wi-Fi. Once you’ve connected to the wrong Wi-Fi network, criminals can see everything, including critical passwords and all your email — even if your browsing session appears to be encrypted. These rogue networks can also even re-route your browser to data-stealing websites.
Unencrypted networks
Encryption means that the information that is sent between your computer and the wireless router is in the form of a “secret code,” so that it cannot be read by anyone who doesn’t have the key to decipher the code. Most routers are shipped from the factory with encryption turned off by default, and it must be turned on when the network is set up. If an IT professional sets up the network, then chances are good that encryption has been enabled. However, there is no surefire way to tell if this has happened.
Packet Sniffing / Eavesdropping
Anyone connected to the same WiFi network can eavesdrop on what you send and receive using a tool called a packet analyzer or packet sniffer. These tools provide the possibility to view everything transmitted over the WiFi network, provided it is not encrypted.
These tools are not inherently bad. Like many tools, you can use them for good or bad purposes. Packet sniffers let network administrators troubleshoot connection problems and other performance issues with their wireless networks (good). On the other hand, they also let hackers intercept other users’ information and steal anything of any value (bad).
How to connect safely
The nice thing is that you don’t need to avoid public WiFi altogether, you just need to make sure you’re using it in a smart and safe way. Here are a few tips for ensuring that your public WiFi experience isn’t putting your personal data at risk.
- Always look for HTTPS.
- Keep the WiFi setting on your phone turned off when you’re not using it.
- Make sure your software is up to date and you have all current security patches installed.
- Use public wifi in trusted places.
