Free Wi-Fi networks are prevalent in libraries, coffee shops, universities, and other public places. But although these networks offer users free and convenient ways to connect to the internet, the connection is usually not secure. Oftentimes, public Wi-Fi networks are monitored by hackers and scammers. That’s why we’ve prepared this guide to help you use public Wi-Fi securely.
Use Your Mobile Data
The first option is to use your phone’s data network. Any smartphone or tablet can connect to 3G, 4G, or 5G network, allowing you to access the internet anywhere. Premium phones also have powerful capabilities that match average desktops. So, you can connect your computer to your phone’s data using a hotspot or network tethering using a USB cable. Note that mobile data use military-grade encryption, making them hard to hack.
Use a VPN Service
Whether you’re a large or individual company, getting a VPN (virtual private network) service should be a top priority. This software protects your vital data by masking your computer’s IP address on a public network. In other words, it hides your identity, letting you enjoy the internet anonymously. For example, a VPN can mask your location, banking information, browsing history, and more. You can also access websites that would otherwise be unavailable in your area. But avoid using free VPN services to limit security breaches.
Your personal data may already be in the hands of data brokers though. Privacy laws in several american states as well as other privacy laws like the GDPR give you the right to opt out from their websites. You can opt out manually or automatically with data removal tool like Incogni.
Visit Encrypted Websites Only
Most websites use encryption technologies like SSL and TSL to provide users with a high degree of privacy. These technologies encrypt information transmitted online by verifying the two communicating devices. Anyone accessing these data will see a mix of characters that are impossible to define. Confirm if a website is SSL encrypted by checking if the link starts with HTTPS and a padlock sign. Tap the icon to see if the website’s connection is secure. It’s that easy!
Pay Attention to Passwords
Creating strong passwords is another straightforward cybersecurity practice when using the public internet. Ensure that the passwords are long enough, preferably more than eight characters. The password should also include numbers, letters, and symbols. Besides using a professional-grade password, always use different passwords on separate websites. When creating an account, most websites will request to use your email or social media details to sign you up. Unless it’s a reliable website, don’t accept it.
Less is More on Public Wi-Fi
Apply less-is-more thinking when browsing the internet on a public Wi-Fi. In plain words, limit your online activities when using the public internet. This also means you should avoid sharing vital information like credit card numbers, ID numbers, and home addresses when using a free Wi-Fi network. And lest I forget, adjust your device settings to “forget” public Wi-Fi and app permissions after use. Some apps can welcome themselves to your information.
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