Is using public WiFi connection safe? Everything you need to know about it

The issue of security over the internet cannot be treated with slackness. This is due to how hackers tend to flood the webspace in the hope exploiting existing security loops to steal sensitive information exchanged over the internet. This danger could persist whether you’re using a home broadband internet connection or connected to a public WiFi. This is why efforts are continuing to raise the cyber security awareness of internet users.

The goal of writing this article is to dwell on the safety of public WiFi connection. Public WiFi avails people the opportunity to freely use internet connection, and this is usually available in certain banks, shopping malls, and on – public places so to say. Due to its setting or availability, concerns over if free WiFi connection is secure to use are never out of place.

How to be safe on public WiFi network

Ensuring a good public WiFi network security is more about taking certain things to heart and acting on them. It is in light of this that the following public WiFi security best practices are now briefly discussed:

Confirm the network

The fact that computer hackers are capable of putting out malicious networks or websites out means you have to be careful when logging on to any network at all. Hence, you should make sure you check the name of the network you’re about logging on to carefully before proceeding. It’s advisable that you use a network you’re conversant with – one that guarantees security. In other words, you should only use a trustworthy public WiFi network, probably one provided by a reputable company.

Avoid File sharing or Airdrop

You should also avoid sharing files neither should you allow being discovered by anyone through Airdrop link – if you’re using iOS. All you need is to do the necessary configuration from your device’s setting. You can either unselect the file sharing option or choose not to be discovered by any other device nearby.

Be mindful of the sensitive information you share

The singular reason of having sensitive information stolen from you is enough to protect your router from hackers. This is not so different from what you could encounter when using a public WiFi whereby you do not have much control over router setting. Hence, you should be mindful of the sensitive information you give away when using a public WiFi.

Stick with HTTPS

HTTPS – which stands for Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure – is indicative of a website that ensures encryption, meaning that the data exchanges between your browser and the web server will be saved from any form of interception from a third-party. So, when next you’re logging on to any website, you should look out for the padlock sign that is before the website address. If the padlock sign is not present then you should desist from connecting to the website. You should note that it’s possible to have a website being accompanied by HTTP – this is not secure.

What are some different ways to encrypt your information?

Apart from only logging on to websites that feature HTTPS, one can also ensure that his/her data exchanges are encrypted through the following means: - Use of VPN app - Mobile data usage. In this case, you may need to have a secure home broadband internet connection