Public Wi-Fi networks-like those in airports, cafés, and hotels-may be convenient, but they also present serious cybersecurity risks. Hackers often exploit unsecured connections to intercept sensitive data such as passwords, banking details, or corporate emails. In some cases, attackers even set up fake Wi-Fi hotspots to lure unsuspecting users.
How to Stay Safe on Public Wi-Fi
- Use a VPN: Encrypts your internet traffic, making it harder for attackers to spy.
- Avoid sensitive transactions: Don’t log into banking apps or make online purchases on public Wi-Fi.
- Forget the network afterward: Prevents automatic reconnection in the future.
- Enable HTTPS-only mode: Ensures you’re connecting to websites securely.
Public Wi-Fi is best treated as untrusted. With the right precautions, you can stay connected without putting your data at risk.