In modern times where you are connected to your devices all the time, even when you are on the go, Public Wi-Fi’s are very helpful and are situated in areas where your mobile data does not function properly. Airports, Train Stations, Parks, libraries, or Malls are some of the Public Places where Public Wi-Fi is most used.
It is quite normal for us to be worried about our privacy when we are accessing Public Wi-Fi. The Public domain if hacked can get into your devices and access all your personal information.
With us staying online from our devices all the time it is understood that most of our important information like passwords, pins to bank accounts, etc., are all stored in our devices as we all use online shopping Apps or indulge in online banking.
We have dedicated this article with some amazing tips and tricks to help you stay safe even when you are using public Wi-Fi.
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Stay safe from dummy networks:
Dummy networks are the wi-fi or hotspot networks created by hackers with a name similar to a known network in that area. This creates confusion and the users end up connecting on this. They act as middlemen and intercept your messages without you realizing it.
Always make sure that you are connecting to the right network. To be safe if you have any responsible employees around check-up with them on the correct network to avoid any confusion.
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Always Enable VPN while on a Public Wi-Fi:
VPN connects you to the wi-fi through various other IP Address so that nobody will be able to trace it back to your device. This brings down the risk of losing any personal information that you have on your device.
VPN means Virtual Private Network and can be easily installed on your devices. This will act as a protective cover over your network.
Always keep in mind that you should only use Public Wi-Fi for browsing and never for sharing. In your devices turn off file sharing before connecting to the public network.
In every device, you have a different way to switch off file sharing.
Windows – Network and Sharing center < Advanced Sharing Settings < File and Printer Sharing < Disable.
Mac – System Preferences < Sharing < Unselect everything. OR
Finder < AirDrop < Allow me to be discovered by: No One < Enable.
iOS – Control Center < AirDrop< off.
Disabling File sharing in your devices will give require your permission every time your system tries to share any file.
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Disable Auto-connect to Wi-Fi and Bluetooth:
Auto-connect option in Wi-Fi lets you connect with any Wi-Fi in the range that is open or to which you were connected previously. This option is not safe as connecting to any open network nearby without checking it can cause harm to your device. The same goes with Bluetooth which is when connected you give the other party access to your device. They can stream your gallery, folders, browsers, and whatnot!
Disabling auto-connect gives you the power to check the network thoroughly and then connect if required.
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Use a different browser from what you use normally
An important trick that can keep your device safe is that when you are on public Wi-Fi use a separate browser. SO that when the servers are connected even if the browser is scrutinized your data is safe in another browser. Use Incognito browsers that do not save any settings and always uncheck on remember me in the case where you are typing passwords.
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Encrypted does not always vouch as safe
Several websites have a lock icon and start with HTTPS or end with gov, which are called encrypted websites and are known to be safe. But nowadays many websites with fake encryption looks are created.
So when you get any messages or emails from such websites do not trust them and click on any links if present in them.
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Always try to connect with a network that has any type of security check
There are several types of public networks. Some of them require you to confirm your identity or asks you to enter your number to share one-time passwords. These are safe networks and you can connect to them without any doubt.
But if you feel that a network has not requested any security check then it means it is an open network and cannot be trusted.
Some more steps that you can take apart from the ones stated above are:
- Always enable your firewall as this protects your devices from viruses and malware.
Windows – Control Panel < System and Security < Windows Firewall < Enable.
Mac – System Preferences < Security & Privacy < Firewall < Enable.
- Always protect your passwords by enabling two-factor or Multi-factor authentication. This will send you an SMS confirmation every time a login attempt will be made on any of your accounts, be it bank accounts or social media accounts.
- Update Antivirus software on all the devices you possess.
- Always sign out of the Public Network once you are done with it.
Conclusion
Make sure that you always take multiple precautionary steps. Never access sensitive data or share financial or bank details with anyone when on Public Wi-Fi. Keep all your devices updated with adequate privacy settings like firewall and VPN.
We hope that this article was helpful. Let us know if you have any more privacy concerns in the comments.
