Understanding security threats online
Public WiFi
Know the risks
Did you know connecting to a public WiFi network could put you at risk? When we're out and about, we don’t always think of the risks that can happen when connecting our personal devices to available networks. If there's any security weakness in the WiFi network, then criminals could exploit it to intercept your data and defraud you.
No public WiFi network is secure - do you know who owns the network? Or who else is using it? But there will be times we need to use it.
Try and stick to as few public WiFi networks as possible. The more you join, the more likely it is that you'll use one that isn't treating your data as carefully as you'd like.
If possible, use your mobile hotspot rather than public WiFi. A mobile hotspot is a way you can connect your computer or tablet or any other device to your phone's internet.
Points to note with mobile data usage
- You won’t be able to use this if mobile data (4G, 5G etc.) is unavailable
- Secondly, using a hotspot uses your mobile data; this is great if you’ve got unlimited data, not so great if you’ve opted for a small allowance on your plan.
For guidance on enabling hotspot functionality, please refer to your device manufacturer's support resources, as steps may vary depending on the make and model.
Check the terms and conditions
Are you comfortable with what the network will collect from your activity whilst you’re connected to it? Or how your information could be shared? We cannot stress enough, check for anything that doesn’t feel right.
If in doubt, don't do it
Public WiFi networks can ask you to pop in details like your email address, phone number and even sometimes create a password. If you absolutely must connect to networks like this, stick to places you trust and consider using an alternative email address that isn't your main one.
The ‘S’ in HTTPS means ‘secure’
If you’re browsing whilst connected to a public WiFi, people on the same WiFi network as you can't snoop on the data that travels between you and the server of the website you're connecting to. Try to make it a general rule of thumb that if it’s private information, don’t access it when using public WiFi. This is especially important when logging into financial apps, such as mobile banking.
Tips for using public WiFi safely
• Avoid accessing sensitive accounts: Don’t log in to your bank, email, or other important accounts while on public WiFi
• Use a VPN: A VPN (Virtual Private Network) is a tool that encrypts your internet connection, creating a secure 'tunnel' for your data. It makes it much harder for anyone else on the network to see what you’re doing
• Turn off automatic connections: Stop your device from automatically connecting to public networks without your permission
• Log out when you’re done: Always log out of accounts after using them, especially on shared networks.
Where to start
Next time you connect to public WiFi:
- Check if the network is legitimate by asking staff or checking signage
- Use a VPN if you’re going to access personal accounts. If you don’t have one, explore well-reviewed VPN services available for your device
- Avoid entering sensitive information, such as passwords or payment details.
By being mindful of how you use public WiFi, you can enjoy the convenience without putting your data at risk.
Finally, if you don't need to be connected then disconnect
This sounds simple, but if you don't need to be connected, one of the best ways to reduce risks from being online is, as you guessed, not being online. Make it a practice to turn your WiFi off on your device and disconnect completely.