The risks of public Wi-Fi: a guide to staying secure online

This increase, combined with the rise in remote working, has made logging into public Wi-Fi networks an appealing option for many. However, this convenience also puts millions of people’s data and privacy at risk each year.

To address these concerns and help you stay secure while connected, Gemma Ryles, an expert at Independent Advisor Broadband Deals, offers the following advice.

Risks associated with public Wi-Fi

Connecting to a public Wi-Fi network can expose your personal data to a range of risks. Information that might seem harmless, such as location data, browsing habits, and personal communications, as well as sensitive data like bank details and login credentials, becomes highly valuable to cybercriminals when accessed without authorisation.

Unencrypted networks

Public Wi-Fi networks often lack encryption, meaning that the data you send and receive is not protected. Encryption scrambles information as it passes through the network, making it unreadable to unauthorised users.

Theft of sensitive data

Using unsecured Wi-Fi networks increases the likelihood that sensitive data, including login details for online banking, email, social media, and other personal accounts, could be exposed. Cybercriminals may exploit unencrypted forms to extract these details, gaining access to your accounts or selling the credentials on the dark web.

Malware distribution

If your device lacks sufficient protection, you may become a victim of malware distribution, which can result in data theft, unauthorised access, or even full control of your device by hackers. This is particularly concerning for employees working outside the office, as business data could be compromised.

Man-in-the-middle attacks

In man-in-the-middle attacks, hackers intercept the connection between your device and the network router. By imitating a trusted device, they can position themselves between the data exchange, allowing them to read, alter, or insert data into your connection.

Honeypot hotspots

Some cybercriminals go as far as creating fake public Wi-Fi networks that appear legitimate. Once you connect, they monitor your unencrypted data and may redirect you to phishing sites to steal personal information. These networks often use familiar names, like “Coffee Shop Guest” or “Free Airport Wi-Fi,” to avoid raising suspicion.

How to protect yourself on public Wi-Fi

Use a VPN

A virtual private network (VPN) encrypts your data, making it more difficult for cybercriminals to intercept or decipher your information when connected to an unsecured Wi-Fi network.

Connect only to secure networks

Be cautious when connecting to Wi-Fi in public places. Avoid unknown networks, especially those without a password or with unfamiliar names. Always confirm with the establishment that you are connecting to their legitimate Wi-Fi network to avoid fakes.

Install security measures

Firewalls and antivirus software offer protection when using unsecured Wi-Fi. Firewalls block unauthorised access to your device, while antivirus software helps fend off malware. Ensure these tools are up to date for maximum protection.

Disable auto-connect settings

Ensure your device’s network settings are configured not to automatically connect to Wi-Fi networks. This reduces the risk of inadvertently connecting to an unsecured network as you pass by.

Use HTTPS connections

If you cannot use a VPN, look for ‘HTTPS’ at the beginning of web addresses. This indicates that the site is encrypted and secure. Alternatively, check for padlocks or security settings in the browser’s address bar to verify the site’s security.

Enable two-factor authentication

Two-factor authentication adds an extra layer of security when logging into websites and apps. It typically requires you to verify your identity via another app, site, or by receiving a code through email or text, making it more difficult for others to access your accounts.

Ryles emphasises the importance of vigilance: “It is important to always be cautious and proactive to ensure online safety when connected to public Wi-Fi. Make sure you are informed on how to stay safe, as making the correct choices starts before you even connect.

“Having software designed to keep you and your data safe is paramount when you have no other choice but to join an unsecured network. Using VPNs, firewalls, and other tools designed to encrypt your data is your best line of defence. By taking these precautions, you can significantly reduce the risks of using public Wi-Fi.”