Public Wi-Fi hotspots offer a quick and easy way to get online. However not all of these hotspots are password protected, which means that anyone can connect to the network – including cyber criminals. Hackers can scan your internet traffic if you connect to an unsecured Wi-Fi network that has been infected.
Try to avoid connecting to unsecured public Wi-Fi and if you have to connect, do not access websites that hold your personal data or financial information. Here are some tips which should help you to stay safe:
Do not connect to unsecured Wi-Fi. Public places such as parks, airport terminals, buses and cafés, do offer free Internet access but are often targeted by criminals. Hackers can scan your internet traffic by allowing you to connect to infected unsecured Wi-Fi.
Never leave your laptop/mobile phone unlocked or unattended as criminals can transfer a virus to your device in seconds to record your future digital activities.
Ask the cafe staff or airport personnel on how to safely connect to their secured Wi-Fi, as the password that is floating around (e.g. written on brochures, card or bulletin board) may belong to a rogue Wi-Fi connection.
Do not access non-public information as other people can record your activity from a distance using a camera.
