It is relaxing to sit in a cafe, plug in your laptop and get to work while you sip a delicious cup joe. However, it might not be so relaxing when you think about the threats that you open up to you sign on public Wi-Fi network of the cafe. The next time you are tempted to send sensitive information through an Internet connection, think about the dangers and take steps to protect yourself.
Why Public Wi-Fi is dangerous
Crackers, hackers or criminals, love of public Wi-Fi. While there are many different ways the bad guys can enjoy your penchant for Wi-Fi, the following are some of the most common attacks.
Imposter Networks
You're sitting at the airport waiting for your flight, and the list of available networks on your device contains both "Airport Wi-Fi" and "Wi Airport Terminal -Fi. " the two networks provide a strong signal, and you see others around you glued to their devices, probably connected to a network. Either the system must be safe, right? Bad.
Hackers can set up dummy Wi-Fi networks, hoping that you will connect. If you do, the villain will be able to see everything you do online. The result could be identity theft, the contraction of the virus, or monetary loss.
Snooping
Even if you have connected to the Wi-Fi network, hackers may be connected to the same network. These public connections are usually not encrypted, which means that when you connect, you're pretty much giving cyber Villains an invitation to spy on your browsing activities.
Many websites have encryption that provides something of a backup for your passwords and account information. However, a hacker could direct you to a fake website that looks almost exactly like a website you visit regularly. If you're not careful, you can enter information on this site, effectively putting it back on a silver platter to someone who wants to steal your identity.
third collection of data
NetworkWorld said third data collection: "Often the biggest violations of privacy are performed by the same institutions that offer Wi-Fi. sometimes Wi-Fi is used to identify potential customers that are in the vicinity of the access point, and sometimes it is used to track the Web sites that users visits for statistical purposes or advertising. "
This type of information gathering will not compromise your online security, but it can still make you feel that your privacy has been violated
Protect yourself on public Wi- the Dos and Don'ts Fi
Fortunately, it is not too difficult to enjoy the benefits of Wi-Fi without compromising your personal data.
- will keep the system operating your device and its anti-malware software and anti-spyware updates.
- Do ask an employee of the company you are visiting for the network name Wi- Fi. if there are two with the same name, choose not to connect to all.
- SHIELD do you eyeballs. hackers may try to steal your information by high-tech means but they could also just look over your shoulder. Be aware of your surroundings, noting anyone who looks suspicious.
- Use a VPN, also known as a proxy server, which disguises the IP address of your computer. Even if you are connected to Wi-Fi coffee, it might look like you are hanging from a server that is on the other side of the country. VPN like Hotspot Shield also use strong encryption to protect your data and sound.
- Does your browsing session short so hackers are less likely to attack you. When you have finished using the network, turn off Wi-Fi on your device
There are also things to avoid when you're on Wi-Fi.
- do not keep up on file sharing on your device. Some devices automatically share information with other gadgets on the same network. Needless to say this is a bad thing on public networks.
- Do not make important business. Avoid using banking sites or other sites that could compromise your money or identity if the wrong people got hold of your login information. Also, try not to send or view private emails.
- Do not leave your device unattended. An evil may insert a keylogger that keeps track of what you type. It may seem impractical to pack and carry around your computer in the bathroom with you, even if you do not plan to take a long time but the added security is worth it.
Public Wi-Fi is a useful tool that can save you from boredom and help you be productive while you're out and about. Even so, use it with caution or you might end up as the victim of a cyber attack.
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