How to Protect Your Data When Using Public Wi-Fi

Introduction

Public Wi-Fi networks are convenient but carry serious security risks. Some common threats of unprotected networks: by using unsecured networks, cybercriminals can intercept data, steal sensitive data, and spread malware. When connected to public Wi-Fi in public places like a coffee house, airport, hotel, etc. And without taking the proper precautions, your sensitive data can be at risk of getting compromised.

To remain secure, you need to understand the threats and take steps to protect your personal data. This guide outlines the process of using public Wi-Fi safely, including what VPNs do, how to adopt secure browsing habits, and which device security features you should enable. Following these recommendations, you can stay focused on your business while being prepared for the most common scenarios that may arise.

Use a VPN (Virtual Private Network)

A virtual private network (VPN) may be utilized to secure data and control access for users, but there are alternative options.

Step 1: Choose a trusted VPN provider

Look for well-known services that prioritize security and privacy. 

Recommended VPNs: NordVPN, ExpressVPN, ProtonVPN, Surfshark

Step 2: Always turn on your VPN before connecting to public Wi-Fi

To keep track of your data and protect yourself from hackers and tracking, always enable your VPN before connecting to public Wi-Fi.

Step 3: Avoid using free VPNs, as they may track and sell your data

Avoid free VPNs since they can track, store, and sell your data, jeopardizing your privacy and security.

Use HTTPS Websites Only

HTTPS secures web conversations by encrypting data in transit between the browser and the server.

Step 1: Look for the lock icon in the address bar.

The lock icon in the address bar signifies a secure, encrypted HTTPS connection that protects data from interception.

Step 2: Install browser extensions like HTTPS Everywhere to force secure connections.

Installing browser extensions such as HTTPS Everywhere promotes secure HTTPS connections whenever possible, protecting your data from interception on unprotected websites.

Disable Automatic Wi-Fi Connections

Disabling automatic Wi-Fi connections keeps your device from connecting to unknown or potentially unsafe networks, decreasing the chance of security breaches such as man-in-the-middle attacks.

Step 1: Turn off Auto-Connect to Wi-Fi in settings.

Turn off Auto-Connect to Wi-Fi in your device's settings to avoid automatic connections to unreliable or unsecured networks, consequently improving your security and privacy.

Step 2: Remove old saved networks from your device.

Removing old saved networks improves security, privacy, and connectivity by preventing automatic connections to outdated or insecure Wi-Fi. 

Forget the Network After Use

Hackers can create fake Wi-Fi networks with the same names as authentic ones.

Step 1: After using public Wi-Fi, "Forget This Network" in your Wi-Fi settings.

Forgetting public Wi-Fi prevents automatic reconnection, reducing security risks like hacking and fake networks.

Use Your Mobile Data or Personal Hotspot

Avoid public Wi-Fi when possible, as it can expose your data to hackers and cyber threats. If you must use it, take precautions like using a VPN and forgetting the network afterward.

Step 1: Use mobile data for sensitive activities.

Using mobile data for sensitive activities is to enhance security by avoiding the risks associated with unsecured public Wi-Fi, ensuring that personal information and transactions are protected from potential cyber threats.

Step 2: Set up a personal hotspot from your phone instead of using public Wi-Fi.

Setting up a personal hotspot from your phone instead of using public Wi-Fi provides a more secure internet connection, reducing the risk of cyber threats and unauthorized access that often come with using unsecured public networks.