Public Wi-Fi

Public Wi-Fi Wi-FiWi-Fi refers to a set of wireless communication protocols that can transmit traffic to Wi-Fi enabled devices within a local area. A Wi-Fi enabled device such as a laptop or tablet can connect to the internet when within range of a wireless network connected to the internet. An area covered by one or more Wi-Fi access points is commonly called a hotspot. is flexible, convenient, and can help you save on your mobile data usage. But using an unsecure public network NetworkSeveral computers that are connected to one another. can bring increased risks.

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Protect yourself while using public Wi-Fi

These days, you can’t walk down the street without being prompted to connect to a public Wi-Fi network. From coffee shops to doctors’ offices to buses and subways, Wi-Fi is available almost everywhere you go.

But while they’re convenient, public Wi-Fi networks aren’t the safest option. Anyone can connect — including potential cyber criminals. It’s important to be cautious about which Wi-Fi networks you connect to and how you use your device for while connected.

Risks to you

Hacking

Hacking HackingHacking is a term used to describe actions taken by someone to gain unauthorized access to a device. The availability of information online on the tools, techniques, and malware makes it easier for even non-technical people to undertake malicious activities. is any action taken to get unauthorized access to a device or an account.

Cyber criminals can attempt to hack your device if you’re on the same unsecured Wi-Fi network. They can also eavesdrop on Wi-Fi signals, accessing your personal information, login credentials CredentialsA user's authentication information (e.g. username, password, pin, token, certificate) used to verify their identity to gain access to their account, devices or services. and accounts.

Malware

Malware MalwareMalicious software ("malware") designed to infiltrate or damage a computer system, without the owner's consent. Common forms of malware include computer viruses, worms, Trojans, spyware, and adware. It can: • Intimidate you with scareware, which is usually a pop-up message that tells you your computer has a security problem or other false information. • Reformat the hard drive of your computer causing you to lose all your information. • Alter or delete files. • Steal sensitive information. • Send emails on your behalf. • Take control of your computer and all the software running on it. is malicious software SoftwareA computer program that provides instructions which enable the computer hardware to work. System software, such as Windows, Linux or MacOS, operate the machine itself, and applications software, such as spreadsheet or word processing programs, provide specific functionality. designed to infiltrate your device.

Cyber criminals can use unsecured Wi-Fi networks to spread malware to other devices on the network — especially if those devices aren’t up to date. Make sure to keep your phones, laptops, and tablets updated to prevent cyber criminals from finding holes in your security. Learn more about software updates.

Fake Wi-Fi hotspots

Be aware that cyber criminals sometimes create fake or "evil twin" Wi-Fi hotspots that are in the same location or that use a similar name as a legitimate hotspot to specifically lure and attack mobile users. When possible, make sure you're choosing a legitimate network before connecting by asking someone from the organisation hosting the Wi-Fi network for their Wi-Fi name.

Connect to public Wi-Fi safely

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Turn Wi-Fi off when you’re not using it

If you're using your device in a public Wi-Fi zone, but you don’t need to connect to the internet, turn your Wi-Fi off.

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Use a firewall

Never surf without your firewall FirewallA security barrier placed between two networks that controls the amount and kinds of traffic that may pass between the two. This protects local system resources from being accessed from the outside. enabled — especially if you’re connected to a public Wi-Fi network. Learn more about firewalls.

Be cautious about what you browse

Browsing the internet on a public Wi-Fi network can be riskier than using a private network. To be on the safe side, never use public Wi-Fi to access sensitive information, like your bank account or to make a purchase.

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Use a VPN

If you find yourself using public Wi-Fi often, using a virtual private network Virtual Private Network(VPN) A private communication network usually used within a company, or by several different companies or organisations to communicate over a wider network. VPN communications are typically encrypted or encoded to protect the traffic from other users on the public network carrying the VPN. (VPN) can be a safer solution. VPNs direct all your web activity through a secure, independent network that encrypts and protects your data. A VPN is offered by most internet service providers as a secondary service.

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Watch out for shoulder surfers

The thing about public Wi-Fi is that it’s, well, public. Like with any time you’re using your device while you’re out, make sure to keep an eye out for anyone who might be watching your screen over your shoulder.

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Browse securely

Never trust the wireless encryption EncryptionConverting information from one form to another to hide its content and prevent unauthorized access. on a public Wi-Fi network. Instead, make sure websites scramble your data by enabling the SSL encryption SSL encryptionA cryptographic protocol that provides security when communicating over the internet. in the settings of the sites you visit.

Also, make sure you’re only visiting websites that use HTTPS HTTPSA protocol for secure communication over a computer network which is widely used on the Internet. , which are more secure than regular HTTP sites. Many popular web browsers such as Chrome and Safari no longer display HTTP, HTTPS, or www in their browser Browser(Web browser) A program that allows a user to find, view, hear, and interact with material on the internet, including text, graphics, sound, and video. ’s URL URL(Uniform Resource Locator) Uniform Resource Locator is the technical term for the address (location) of a resource on the internet such as a website or file. . In order to help ensure you are browsing safely, look for a padlock icon at the start of the URL field to know you’re on a secure site.

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