DEV Community

Cover image for Things to know before using public Wi-Fi
Hein Khant Zaw
Hein Khant Zaw

Posted on

Things to know before using public Wi-Fi

Accessing wifi is not a problem while you are at home - it’s secure, easy to connect and no strangers are using your home network. However, when you are outside, using public Wi-Fi will give you a nightmare if you aren't aware of the risk of security issues. So, if you are considering whether to connect to the public Wi-Fi network at the shopping mall, the airport, etc. beware of the potential risk to your device because hackers love public Wi-Fi!
Although it’s risky to use Wi-Fi in public, I’m going to explain how to safely use public Wi-Fi services.

Use VPN

The most effective trick to staying safe on public Wi-Fi is to use a VPN on your devices. Although virtual private networks are not infallible, they can protect your privacy. They encrypt data that passes through the network and connect your device to a secure server, making it harder for the hackers on the same network or anyone who controls the network to see what you're doing. So, using a VPN will secure your information from other users of the same connection.

Always HTTPS

When the site you're visiting uses an unencrypted HTTP connection, most of the browsers let you know with the "Not Secure" label beside the URL. Beware of that warning especially if you are connected to public Wi-Fi. When you browse over HTTPS, people on the same Wi-Fi network can’t sniff the data that travels between you and the server of the website you're connecting to. If it’s over HTTP, it’s gonna be very easy for them to track what you're surfing. So, always verify that the website you surf uses HTTPS.

Never give away too much info

It’s better not to access personal bank accounts, or give sensitive personal data (your address, phone number or email, etc.) on public Wi-Fi. If you have no choice, you should consider using an alternative email address or phone number that isn't your primary one. And also, it’s not recommended to do online shopping over public Wi-Fi. Of course, shopping doesn’t seem like a big deal, but making purchases online requires personal information - bank account or credit card numbers.

Don’t let your guard down

Never leave your device unattended in public. Even if you’re on a secure network or unsecured network, that won’t stop someone from taking your device or sneaking a peek at your device.
Always keep your device near you.

If you follow the steps mentioned above, you will have more chances of staying out of trouble while you're using public Wi-Fi. However, Always keep in mind that no public Wi-Fi network is secure and you should always use public Wi-Fi with caution.
And Remember - any device could be at risk too.

Speedy emails, satisfied customers

Postmark Image

Are delayed transactional emails costing you user satisfaction? Postmark delivers your emails almost instantly, keeping your customers happy and connected.

Sign up

Top comments (2)

Collapse
 
s__4f40b7d79f69db3282 profile image
ᴀʀsʜ ♤
Collapse
 
rohitse0 profile image
Rohit Mishra

If you need any login related assistance feel free to visit this website. routerlist.com/

Billboard image

The Next Generation Developer Platform

Coherence is the first Platform-as-a-Service you can control. Unlike "black-box" platforms that are opinionated about the infra you can deploy, Coherence is powered by CNC, the open-source IaC framework, which offers limitless customization.

Learn more

👋 Kindness is contagious

Discover a treasure trove of wisdom within this insightful piece, highly respected in the nurturing DEV Community enviroment. Developers, whether novice or expert, are encouraged to participate and add to our shared knowledge basin.

A simple "thank you" can illuminate someone's day. Express your appreciation in the comments section!

On DEV, sharing ideas smoothens our journey and strengthens our community ties. Learn something useful? Offering a quick thanks to the author is deeply appreciated.

Okay