WI-FI: Dangers of public Wi-fi and how to protect yourself while using public Wi-fi

Article written by: Shalom Oshioma

Article designed by: Shalom Oshioma and Natasha Gumpula

A lot of us have probably used Wi-Fi but do we know what it means and how it is used? In this article, we will discuss what Wi-fi is, how it works, and how to protect ourselves while on public Wi-Fi.

What is Wi-Fi and how does it work?

According to the Oxford English dictionary, Wi-fi is used as the abbreviation for‘wireless fidelity’ (Oxford English Dictionary) (which is a system for sending data over computer networks using radio waves instead of wires). It works using radio waves, a type of electromagnetic wave—meaning they are energy that travels through space in the form of electric and magnetic fields. An information device converts data into radio signals, the router then picks them up, sends the information to the internet, and then returns the response back to your device through the same wireless signals.

 Image by https://www.netspotapp.com

Now that we have learnt what Wi-Fi is and how it works, let's look into the uses of Wi-Fi.

Beyond basic connectivity, Wi-fi supports communication tools like messaging apps, video calls, and email. These services are quite fast and really reliable. This is because the services rely on fast stable wireless networks to function smoothly. This enables people to remain connected with family, friends and loved ones even over long distances! Isn’t that great?

Public Wi-fi: Dangers and how to keep our information safe while on?

Cybercriminals usually use a combination of know-how and free tools to sneak into unsecured networks(Wi-Fi and Hotspot) in order to steal Personal/Sensitive Information. Such information could include passwords, social security number(s) or banking information. When stolen, such information could be sold on the dark web(where the buyer and seller are both anonymous thus, finding it hard to find the criminal).

(https://www.aura.com/learn/dangers-of-public-wi-fi)

How do public networks get hacked?

Some of the most common methods are;

1. Malicious Hotspots (AKA “Evil twin”)

2. Man-in-the-middle

3. Malware injection

4. Packet sniffing

(https://securityaffairs.com/159003/security/public-wi-fi-attacks.html)                                                           

 Image by https://www.linkedin.com

Now, how do we protect ourselves from such dangers?

There are several ways to protect ourselves from the dangers that come with a public hotspot(or wi-fi) : the most common measures taken includes but not limited to;

1. Using a VPN: VPN is short for Virtual Private network, a tool that creates a secure and encrypted connection between a device and the internet. A VPN hides your real location and protects your data online. It is thus an important and reliable  measure of keeping your data safe when online!

2. Using your phone’s Hotspot: First of, what is an Hotspot? A hotspot is a location that allows devices to connect with the internet wirelessly without a mobile device. There are several benefits that come with using a phone's mobile hotspot some of which are the easy access, reliability and of course, the security. (https://www.verizon.com/shop/consumer-guides/hotspots-a-comprehensive-guide/)

3. Enabling two factor authentication(2FA): Two factor authentication, sometimes called two step verification, is an extra layer of security used in verifying your identity.

2FA is implemented in order to further protect a user's credentials(e.g., passwords, social security numbers etc.) and the resources the user can access.

4. Running frequent updates: Running updates help keep your browser up to date with  secure, stable, and performing at its best.

Signs a Public Wi-Fi Network Is Unsafe What are the signs to look out for while using a public wi-fi?

1. No password

2. Strange network names

3. Login pages asking for personal info

4. Pop-ups requesting unnecessary permissions

 https://www.shutterstock.com/search/no-password

Conclusion:

Public Wi-Fi networks often offer great convenience but present risks that users must be aware of. If a user knows how Wi-Fi operates, keeps an eye on the different types of cyber-attacks that can happen, and uses some protective methods like VPNs, 2FA, regular updates and mobile hotspots for example, he or she can greatly improve online security. While developing your digital skills, consider that strong habits that you build now will also protect you with future technologies. So keep on being curious, keep on being informed and keep on being proactive in protecting your information—you are doing a great job.

References:

“Wi-Fi.” Oxford English Dictionary, Oxford University Press, www.oed.com.

NetSpot. “What Is Wi-Fi and How It Works.” NetSpot, www.netspotapp.com.

LinkedIn Learning. “Common Public Wi-Fi Security Threats.” LinkedIn, www.linkedin.com.

“Hotspots: A Comprehensive Guide.” Verizon, Verizon Wireless, www.verizon.com/shop/consumer-guides/hotspots-a-comprehensive-guide/.

Shutterstock. “No Password Icon / Unsafe Network Images.” Shutterstock, www.shutterstock.com/search/no-password.

National Cyber Security Centre. “Using Public Wi-Fi Safely.” NCSC, www.ncsc.gov.uk/guidance/using-public-wifi-safely.

Federal Trade Commission. “How To Protect Your Information When Using Public Wi-Fi.” FTC, www.consumer.ftc.gov.

“9 possible ways hackers can use public wifi to steal your sensitive data”https://securityaffairs.com/159003/security/public-wi-fi-attacks.html