Lifestyle

Why You Need to Be Careful Using Public WiFi

free wifi

Free Wifi is available nearly everywhere these days. From cafes, hotels and public transport to airports, just about everywhere has free wifi now.

A lot of us are incredibly trusting when it comes to using public internet, and many of us are willing to compromise our security for the sake of free web browsing time.

Having access to free wifi is great and can stop you from creating a huge data bill or being put on data restriction but the truth is, not many people know that in a lot of cases, your information can be obtained from another user on the network.

The scary thing is, apps are available for people to do this. Yes, there are apps to hack other people’s information in app stores. Scary isn’t it?

wifi

Just because most wireless routers have a firewall to protect you from the internet doesn’t mean you’re protected from others connected to the same network. It’s remarkably easy to steal someone’s username and password, or see what they’re doing online.

You can use insecure, free Wi-Fi, but it is always recommended doing this only for basic surfing. Never access emails, password based accounts (like social media), or internet banking. Hackers can be lurking to steal your information.

You may want to try using a VPN, or virtual private network. These services let you route all your activity through a separate secure, private network, thus giving you the security of a private network even though you’re on a public one.

Another way to safeguard yourself is to turn your wifi off when you aren’t at home. Not only will it stop hackers getting into your phone, laptop or tablet but it will save battery power as well. As the device uses more power when looking for wifi sources.

Of course, the best course of action is to use your own data with your phone or hot spot your laptop via your phone. You can also you can buy portable wifi devices from electrical and department stores or telecommunications stores.

 

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