How to use public Wi-Fi networks securely

How to use public Wi-Fi networks securely

Nowadays Wi-Fi has become a necessity for everyone. Most public places now have access to free Wi-Fi, whether at airports or shopping malls, or even restaurants. But how safe is it to use this free wi-fi network? Aren't these networks unknowingly undermining your online security?

Public Wi-Fi is much needed outside the home or in an unfamiliar place. But even if this Wi-Fi is free, your personal information can be lost unknowingly. The present time is most valuable in personal information. So using free Wi-Fi can be safe by taking some precautions.

Let us know in detail about the precautions that should be taken while using free wifi.

Ensure device security

There are currently anti-malware and antivirus software for any device. If you are not a heavy user of mobile devices, you are less likely to be infected with viruses or malware. On the other hand, even if the computer has a firewall and security protocol by default, it can be attacked by malware and viruses through various websites and files. 

This can be especially serious in the case of free Wi-Fi in public places. Your device can be infected with viruses and malware at any time while using the Internet. You may even lose control of your device completely. Many malware hackers can steal online data as well as offline data. Hackers may use your device without your knowledge. So use anti-malware and antivirus software to prevent malware and viruses to protect your device from such risks.

Use of VPN

One of the main ways to use the Internet securely is to use a VPN. Virtual private networks or VPNs basically encrypt your data when using the Internet. This ensures that the third party cannot access your data. VPN creates a secure connection by hiding the user's real identity and location. Since VPN will ensure your maximum security, you can be sure of using free Wi-Fi.

Do not make financial transactions

Although these free internet networks are useful for surfing the internet, they are not secure enough for any kind of financial transaction. Never do banking transactions or credit card transactions using the free Wi-Fi in any public place. Such a small mistake can lead to huge financial losses. 

Also avoid using such data while being connected to a free Wi-Fi network to strengthen the security of important data of the working organization. This means that while there is no problem with watching videos on YouTube or browsing Facebook using free WiFi, there are security risks in logging into an online banking account or providing credit card information in an online marketplace.

Use difficult passwords

Passwords used on any type of social media and email account ensure account security. But password hacking is a common occurrence nowadays. So try to use strong and impenetrable passwords. Strong passwords must be used to ensure maximum security for the account. Use uppercase and lowercase letter combinations, numbers and special characters in your password. 

If you have all the mentioned elements in your password, the password will become very impenetrable. Try to use different passwords on all websites. Also refrain from using your name, family members' names, birthdays or anything that can be easily guessed as a password. If you're logged into personal accounts using regular free Wi-Fi, it's important to use strong passwords to secure your account.

Safe website usage

Although there are countless websites on the Internet, not all websites are secure. Internet data providers will not be able to see the data if you enter data on sites whose URL starts with "https". But the site admin will be able to see exactly if you want. So keep this in mind when providing your information on any site. 

The first condition to be safe when browsing the internet is to browse the secure website. Avoid clicking on suspicious or unfamiliar links, as these links may contain malware. This type of link is more likely to be found when using free WiFi, which has to be resisted with eyes and ears open.

While free WiFi available in public places is risky, this does not mean that it should be discontinued altogether. Free Wi-Fi can be used without any problems by using the right tools and taking the necessary precautions. But always be careful when using free wifi.