Dont let public Wi-Fi convenience compromise your safety

Date:
Mon, 25 Nov 2024 11:54:49 +0000

Description:
A stark reminder of the vulnerabilities that public Wi-Fi can pose to our security, on both a societal and individual level.

FULL STORY ======================================================================

If the recent cyberattack on the UKs rail Wi-Fi network showcased anything
its that disrupted public transport systems can cause widespread concern. It is also a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities that public Wi-Fi can pose to our security , on both a societal and individual level. While many view free internet access as a convenience whether on the train, in cafs, or at airports these growing attacks highlights how easily unprotected Wi-Fi can
be exploited by cybercriminals and malicious actors.

To ensure data privacy , and limit the risks of personal information falling into the wrong hands, there is an urgent need for everyone to rethink their use of public Wi-Fi, especially through unsecured networks such as public transport. The increasing use of public Wi-Fi

Public Wi-Fi is a convenient tool for people to use social media , watch movies or work during long commutes, helping to explain its significant rise in popularity in recent years. Nowadays its rare to see a business that doesnt offer public hotspots with companies embracing the benefits in
customer satisfaction, but also the commercial potential for social media posts and geotagging.

Generally, users need to authorize the network or sign up by sharing their emails to use these free Wi-Fi services, however devices can also connect to one of these open and accessible networks automatically. In doing so, users are vulnerable to online threats, data leaks and cyberattacks from malicious actors monitoring the same networks. Dangers of public Wi-Fi

While organizations think they're offering a helpful service, they often forget or are generally unaware that there is a need always implement robust security measures endangering end users.

The most common risk is Man-in-the-Middle Attacks (MITM), where hackers intercept communication between advice and the Wi-Fi network, gaining access to sensitive information like passwords , emails, and financial details. Typically, the user has no idea that this is even happening, let alone implementing the measures necessary to stop an attack. Data relating to an individuals online activities, alongside passwords and personally
identifiable information, can be collected and sold to third parties and advertisers or be used to set up elaborate phishing attacks.

The second threat is through the Evil Twin attack, where the bad actors can hijack the connection between the node and the Wi-Fi hotspot. Evil twins are fake Wi-Fi hotspots that imitate actual public Wi-Fi networks in the area.
For example, if youre in a Starbucks and see two Wi-Fi networks, one named Starbucks and the other Starbucks-for-customers, you might believe they are both legitimate. In reality, one of them could be set up by a hacker looking to steal your data.

Additionally, bad actors also tend to target your cookies just as much as
your traffic. These cookies can be used to get sensitive information, such as your login details, home address, and name. Sometimes hackers can also
implant computer worms into your device even if you dont download them or install malicious software. Clearly, one wrong click of joining a fake Wi-Fi network can be enough to compromise your data. Stay safe when using public Wi-Fi

Using WIFI on the move is a necessity for many, particularly on long
journeys, or to facilitate remote working. However, with data theft
incidents and WIFI related attacks becoming more frequent and more sophisticated, protecting yourself when public Wi-Fi is the only win-win option for users.

One of the most effective solutions is using a VPN to encrypts your data.
This means that anybody snooping on a public Wi-Fi connection will only see a collection of jumbled, unusable information.

Additionally, every device that accesses the internet has a unique digital badge, called an IP address . This IP address carries identifying information whether youre making an online order, browsing X, or creating a presentation for work. When you connect to a VPN server , your IP address is replaced by the servers IP address. This way, your actual IP address remains private.

VPNs offer robust protection and can be used across multiple devices, ideal for frequent travelers or remote workers who rely on public Wi-Fi. It is important that while connecting on a VPN cross check that you are pairing
with trustworthy open-source VPN protocols like OpenVPN or WireGuard.

When accessing or using public WIFI without a VPN, avoid logging into your online accounts and inputting passwords when on a public network. This includes using passwords for online banking, email accounts, social media,
and more. Similarly, make sure to disable auto-connect on your device, as it will save you from automatically connecting to any fake networks. Cybersecurity is everyone's responsibility

The attack on the UKs rail Wi-Fi network is a sobering reminder of how interconnected our communications have become, and how reliant we are on digital infrastructure to facilitate our day-to-day activities. Users need to stay vigilant or else one can end up providing a lot of your personally identifiable and sensitive information through the Wi-Fi network youre connected to. As a reminder, using Incognito/Private mode doesnt help. It only limits your device from tracking browsing history. Your ISP (Internet Service Provider) or the owner of the Wi-Fi hotspot can still see the
traffic.

In a world of remote work and frequent business travelers, data security must be top of mind. With sensitive company or personal data potentially being accessed over public networks, using tools like VPNs and adopting strict practices isnt just recommended its highly important. The question we all need to ask ourselves is, if the free Wi-Fi network worth the potential loss of privacy and security? Protect yourself now before convenience becomes a costly mistake.

We've featured the best business VPN.

This article was produced as part of TechRadarPro's Expert Insights channel where we feature the best and brightest minds in the technology industry today. The views expressed here are those of the author and are not necessarily those of TechRadarPro or Future plc. If you are interested in contributing find out more here: https://www.techradar.com/news/submit-your-story-to-techradar-pro



======================================================================
Link to news story: https://www.techradar.com/pro/dont-let-public-wi-fi-convenience-compromise-you r-safety


--- Mystic BBS v1.12 A47 (Linux/64)
* Origin: tqwNet Technology News (1337:1/100)