How free is free Wi-Fi?
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We all like the free things in life – and we would be lying if we said that free Wi-fi isn’t at the top of the list. These days we all connect to free Wi-fi in cafes, restaurants, airports, and libraries for work and personal use.
However, sometimes free wi-fi comes at a significant cost. If done carelessly, connecting to a free connection could cost you your digital identity, business information, and financial data amongst a few things.
It sounds like something from a Tom Clancy novel, but the statistics tell a different story.
Forbes did a study to gain insights into people’s perceptions of public wi-fi connections. They found that 43% of their respondents have had their online security compromised while using public Wi-fi.
Additionally, the majority of people in that survey (56%) connect to public Wi-Fi networks that don't require a password, while 44% connect to networks that do.
Statistics like these highlight that there is little awareness about the safety of public Wi-fi connections – so let’s set a few facts straight.
How hackers use public connections to get your information
There are many ways hackers use public Wi-fi connections as a medium to gain access to your personal and business information.
One of the most common is Man-in-the-middle (MITM) Attacks. This is when the hacker secretly intercepts and possibly alters the communication between two parties. While a user believes they are communicating with a website, email server, or another user a hacker is relaying the information, and capturing sensitive data in the process.
Rogue hotspots are when a hacker creates a fake Wi-fi network as close as possible to the legitimate connection, monitors traffic and captures sensitive information.
Honeypot Networks are similar to rogue hotspots except this is when a hacker creates a convincing connection to distribute malware. Using readily available tools, they can create deceptive networks, like ‘FREE AIRPORT WIFI,’ in places like airports. When unsuspecting users connect to these networks, their personal data becomes vulnerable to harvesting by the malicious actor behind the setup.”
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Malware distribution is when public Wi-fi is used as a means to distribute malware. Once the user's device is infected, their activity can be monitored, information can be stolen, and much more.
These are only a few of the ways hackers use public Wi-fi to undergo criminal activity. While public networks are convenient, most of the time they are not worth the risks.
What you can do
The good news is that there are a few things you can do to make sure the Wi-fi connection you wish to use is secure:
Don’t leave your business data vulnerable.
When it comes to your personal and business information – no extra steps should be an inconvenience. The best way to look after your business data is to have a trusted managed IT provider who can look after your cybersecurity and train your staff about all things cybersecurity.
Let Dynamic Business Technologies be your trusted provider. With years of experience and a dedicated team of technicians, we have the skills needed to keep your business secure in the digital landscape.