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Tips for using public Wi-Fi networks
Wi-Fi hotspots in public places can come in very handy, but are often not secure. If you connect to a network and send information through websites or mobile apps, there is a danger that it could be accessed by someone else.
To protect your information when using these hotspots, you should only send information to sites that are fully encrypted, and avoid using mobile apps that require personal or financial information.
How encryption works
Encryption is vital in keeping your personal information secure online. It basically works by scrambling information you send over the internet into a code which is not accessible to others. When you’re using wireless networks, it’s best to send personal information only if it’s encrypted either by an encrypted website or a secure Wi-Fi network.
How to tell if a website is encrypted
Whenever you send an email, share digital photos and videos, use social networks, or bank online, you’re sending personal data over the internet. The information you share is stored on a server, a powerful computer that collects and delivers content. Many websites, such as banking sites, use encryption to protect your information as it travels from your computer to their server. To determine if a website is encrypted, look for https at the start of the web address (the “s” is for secure).
TOP TIP: Some websites use encryption only on the sign-in page, but if any part of your session isn’t encrypted, your entire account could be vulnerable. Look for https on every page you visit, not just when you sign in.
What about mobile apps?
Unlike websites, mobile apps don’t have a visible indicator like https. Researchers have found that many mobile apps don’t encrypt information properly, so it’s a bad idea to use certain types of mobile apps on unsecured Wi-Fi. If you plan to use an app to conduct sensitive transactions — such as shopping with a credit card, or accessing your bank account use a secure wireless network (at home) or your phone’s data network (often referred to as 3G, 4G or 5G).
Don’t assume a Wi-Fi hotspot is secure
Most Wi-Fi hotspots don’t encrypt the information you send over the internet and aren’t secure. In fact, if a network doesn’t require a WPA or WPA2 password, it’s probably not secure.
Hacking tools are readily available online, making it easier than ever before for users with limited technical know-how to hack into accounts accessing your personal information, private documents, contacts, family photos, and even your log-ins.
Stay safe on public Wi-Fi
Check the encryption
When using a hotspot, only log-in or send personal information to websites you know are fully encrypted. To be secure, your entire visit to each site should be encrypted – from the time you log in to the site until you log out. If you think you’re logged in to an encrypted site but find yourself on an unencrypted page, log out straight away.
Use a VPN
If you regularly access online accounts through Wi-Fi hotspots, use a virtual private network (VPN). VPNs encrypt traffic between your computer and the internet, even on unsecured networks. You can get a personal VPN account from a VPN service provider. VPN options are also available for mobile devices to encrypt information sent through apps.
Use different passwords
Do not use the same password on different websites. It could give someone who gains access to one of your accounts access to many of your accounts.
Check your settings
Consider changing the settings on your mobile device so it doesn’t automatically connect to nearby Wi-Fi. That way, you have more control over when and how your device uses public Wi-Fi.
Mind your warnings
Many web browsers alert users who try to visit fraudulent websites or download malicious programs. Pay attention to these warnings, and keep your browser and security software up-to-date.
Always sign out
Don’t stay permanently signed in to accounts. When you’ve finished using an account, log out.
Using Public Wi-Fi on Your Mobile?
If you often connect to public Wi-Fi on your phone, it’s worth making sure your device is up to date and supports the latest security features. Browse our full range of mobile phones to find one that suits your needs, whether you're streaming, browsing, or staying productive on the go.
