Nowadays, public Wi-Fi networks can be found practically anywhere, from hotels and cafes to supermarkets. While utilizing public Wi-Fi while sitting at a cafe or shopping is undoubtedly handy, the risks involved with using a public Wi-Fi network should not be overlooked.
This enables hackers to easily get access to unsecured network devices. Let’s look at some of the security issues we face while connecting to public Wi-Fi networks and explain each one.
What are the dangers of using public wireless networks?
The primary risk connected with utilizing a public Wi-Fi hotspot is that your traffic is not protected when using a public network, so it may easily be traced by an intruder connecting to the same hotspot and using special software that allows it.
Cybercriminals actively use free Wi-Fi access points. As previously stated, attackers can easily collect a variety of information about active access points, their names, the base stations used, the type of encryption, connected devices, and the sites viewed on them using special applications (software network scanners) installed on a smartphone, tablet, or laptop, to determine whether devices share files or not. Learn how to avoid security hazards when using public Wi-Fi networks.
How can you keep yourself safe when utilizing a public network?
Public Wi-Fi networks provide not just Internet access, but also a million opportunities for fraudsters to steal your passwords. What can you do to safeguard yourself? If you routinely use public Wi-Fi networks without taking safeguards and don’t care about the validity of the access point you’re using, you’re almost likely putting yourself at risk.
Fortunately, the procedures required to ensure the complete security of a public Wi-Fi network are straightforward and will provide you with peace of mind when connecting to any public network. Select the best free VPN to safeguard your info.
A VPN is one of the most secure and safe techniques of protecting your gadgets.
When selecting a VPN, keep the following points in mind:
- There is no logging policy.
- A large server network
- Simple-to-use programs
Nowadays, having an internet connection is a requirement. However, if you’re just using a public Wi-Fi network, this can be an issue. Hotspot apps, on the other hand, come in handy in this situation. Remember that the best access point programs frequently include a VPN connection.
The Benefits of Using a VPN
A VPN (Virtual Private Network) uses tunnels to enable distant safe access to the Internet. When you use the Internet, a VPN encrypts personal data and hides your IP address from the outside world, so no one knows what sites you visit or what you do on them.
Every user must use VPN technology for the following reasons:
- Data security. It’s ideal for consumers who like connecting to their neighbor’s “free” Wi-Fi connection only to learn that their credit card information has been stolen. Such scenarios include sitting in cafes and, more broadly, anywhere with free Wi-Fi.
- Complete anonymity. When you open a new tab with a website, this action is recorded on the provider’s server, allowing any firm employee to track your Internet activity. Because you are utilizing a different IP address when you use a VPN, you can disguise your browsing or visiting history.
- The capacity to use the Internet without difficulty. Bookmakers, online casinos, torrents, forums, adult websites – the entire “underground” of the Internet is once again open to you.
- Making use of foreign resources. Of course, you will most likely use English-language services, but you will have complete access to all prominent sites around the world.
Conclusion
Using public Wi-Fi may not be as risky as you believe. Hackers, government agencies, and other invaders can monitor everything you do online when you utilize an unencrypted public Wi-Fi network. That means they have access to your daily messages, emails, and bank information, to mention a few critical services.
The most important thing is to keep you safe. Fortunately, there are numerous methods for protecting your devices and the data they contain from the risks of public Wi-Fi networks. Having a good VPN is one of them. You can connect to a public hotspot on your device using a VPN to read the latest news, check social media, or even check your bank balance.