Public Wi-Fi is everywhere. According to BBC News, there is an access point 150 people worldwide. Of course, in some countries, the ratio is much smaller. In the UK, for example, there is an access point for 11 people. Indeed, it is easier to connect than ever, if you are just stopping to check your email, or if you want to install for a while and take care of some serious work.
No one denies that public Wi-Fi is convenient, but it does not come without its drawbacks. Before jumping into this attractive public network, ensure that you have taken steps to protect your data and your identity.
Do not automatically connect
If your device connects to Wi-Fi spots automatically, it opens you to danger. An unsecured network is an invitation for the bad guys to look at your browsing activity and access to sensitive information. Go into the settings of your device and search for an option that allows you to automatically connect to open networks; Off.
Finding the right network
Walk through a busy metropolitan area, and you will see that your camera has a long list of available Wi-Fi connections. While it is tempting to sign on the network with the strongest signal, do not. It might look like it comes from a legitimate company, but there is no way to be sure.
Hackers can set up hotspots with names like "Wi-Fi" or the name might even sound like it comes from the company you are. This "man in the middle" exposes you. Ask a member of staff of the company where you are to name their Wi-Fi network.
Update before signing on
CNET points out in a way that unwary users were victims of an upgrade trap: "There have been cases of travelers being unprepared when connecting to public Wi-Fi networks or at the hotel when the device prompts them to update software. If accepted by the user, the malware was installed on the machine. "
Do not install updates, unless you are on a secure network you trust.
have a mix of passwords
using the same password for everything is convenient, and it could save you from overloading the brain, but there is also a danger. If a bad guy uses Wi-Fi and get one of your passwords, it could mean that he all passwords. Choose a different password for each account, and use a secure password manager to keep track of them.
Need extra motivation to mix your passwords? According to Bloomberg Business, it takes 10 minutes for a hacker to break into a tiny six-character password that does not include numbers or special characters.
Go Incognito With Hotspot Shield
An IP address publicly visible may help hackers track your online activities. Dress up your device with Hotspot Shield; it allows you to use a different server for the IP address, which gives you anonymity and security.
Hotspot Shield offers other benefits as well. It comes with Wi-Fi security protocols, and even serves as a bulwark against malware. The best part? It is inexpensive and effective.
Understanding Encryption
The FTC says: "Encryption scrambles the information you send over the Internet into a code so it is not accessible to others. When using wireless networks, it is best to send personal information unless it is encrypted -. Either by an encrypted website or a Wi-Fi network "
websites Encrypted will have" https "in the URL. Even if you're on Wi-Fi, you can enjoy encryption advantages over all sites. Some services use HTTPS encryption on all the information you send and receive on the Internet. Also be on the lookout for websites that offer new forms of encryption, such as encryption end end, which means that only the sender and recipient can view the information.
Disable sharing
Some devices are configured to automatically search for other devices on a network and share information with them. This is fine when you're at home on your own Wi-Fi security, but if you're in public, you could provide easy fodder for hackers. Access your network settings to disable sharing.
Public Wi-Fi is practical, and sometimes it is a lifeline, but do not sign on unless you are willing to manage risk.
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