Cybersecurity Minute: Avoid Using Public Wi-Fi Connections, even when they are password protected. Here’s why:
While public networks are convenient, they pose a big security risk. Avoid connecting to public Wi-Fi unless absolutely necessary. Instead, consider using your phone carrier’s internet connection or use your phone as a personal hotspot if your plan allows.
4 Safety Concerns around using public Wi-Fi are:
- Network Sniffing: the attacker can be scanning the public network for unencrypted passwords or credentials
- MITM ( Man in the Middle) Attack: the attacker can place itself between you and the server you’re trying to reach and capture your private information
- Session Hijacking: this is when the attacker exploits a legitimate web browsing session in order to capture your information
- Malware, Viruses and Worms: connecting to a public Wi-Fi will expose your device to any of these infections
If you must absolutely need to connect to public Wi-Fi, here are some safety tips to keep in mind:
- Make sure to have updated anti-virus/ security software installed on your device
- Verify the network name with the establishment as sometimes malicious individuals create similar connection points
- Make sure to de-select the connect automatically feature for future sessions
- And ensure to disconnect the connection immediately upon completing use
