Public Wifi: Things you might not be aware about

Public WiFi networks like those in coffee shops or hotels are not nearly as safe as you think. Even if they have a password, you’re sharing a network with thousands of other people, which means your data could be at risk.  Here are some basic security tips to ensure you stay safe online:

Beware of Free Wi-Fi – Pick the Correct Network.  If there are a number of names similar to the establishment you are in, take the time to choose the correct one, not just the one with the strongest signal, but the legitimate network. If it is too easy for you to log on, you might be on a fake network where someone is just sitting and waiting for you to enter your passwords or a credit card number.

Pick a Secure Network. This is generally one where you are locked out but need a password to access, which the establishment should readily provide you with.

Disable Sharing. Disable it before you go out. In Windows 10, go to Settings > Network and Internet > Wi-Fi > Change Advanced Sharing Options (on the right) and look for Guest or Public—click the down caret to open that section. Click the radio buttons next to “Turn off network discovery” so your PC isn’t seen, and “Turn off file and printer sharing” to avoid sharing.

Consider Using a Virtual Private Network. Unfortunately, not all sites offer SSL encryption. Other search engines and email providers may still be vulnerable to people watching your activity, so if you use one of these sites frequently (or really just want the extra protection), you may want to try using a VPN, or virtual private network. These services let you route all your activity through a separate secure, private network, thus giving you the security of a private network even though you’re on a public one.

We recommend and install F-Secure Freedome VPN and F-Secure Safe for PC’s, Macs, Smartphones and Tablets. Details on this can be found here.

Contact us on 0330 445 0051 for more information or visit http://www.v12tech.co.uk