Public WiFi isn’t limited to just coffee shops and airports these days, they can be found anywhere from malls, hospitals, train stations, sports stadiums and in some parts of the world, even along major roads. Here are some tips taken from an IT services point of view to keep you safe while using public wifi.
Turn Off ‘Sharing’
On your windows laptop or even tablet, there’s an option to turn file sharing on/off. This is usually in the ‘off’ setting by default but it’s important to keep it that way when accessing public networks. Sometimes you will get prompted to specify the settings you would like as soon as you connect to a new network – if it’s a network that you cannot 100% then do not share anything.
Use a VPN
A VPN these days doesn’t have to be a hundred plus dollar piece of software, there are a few decent free alternatives on most of the popular browser app stores as well as the mobile app stores. Although it’s arguable as to how secure each VPN really is, some of the free alternatives will hide you from the basics. Most will keep you 100% anonymous from the basic tasks such as web browsing and streaming, the paid alternatives will offer additional security features to bolster your privacy. Either way most IT services providers will recommend a VPN.
Verify Public WiFi Connection
These ease of setting up a fake wifi network to make it look like an authentic one is childs play these days. So take the necessary steps to check whether the public wifi that you’re using is indeed legit and secure. The last thing you want is to connect to a fake wifi and have a hacker who is within metres from you logging your every keystroke including your login credentials.
Avoid High Profile Websites
If possible do not log in to your internet banking, social media accounts or even email – we know, it’s a bit of an ask but better safe than sorry. If it can wait then wait. Again, IT services providers always recommend you perform your sensitive internet activities on a secure network, such as your home or office. Accessing your internet banking using a football stadium public wifi is just asking for trouble.
Enable A Firewall
As an IT services provider we will always go for safety first so it is essential that you keep you firewall on at all times. This is an important aspect of device security as a firewall monitors your network traffic and connection attempts into and out of a network or computer. The firewall determines whether or not to allow it to pass. Firewalls are pretty much standard nowadays but not all are 100% secure, and sometimes it isn’t the filtering which could break your defences, instead it simply could be human interaction.
Update All Software
Following on from the previous point, software needs to be updated regularly – all antiviruses’, operating systems, browsers etc. They need to be updated as soon as an update is available. Hackers these days, including the ones who rely heavily on public wifi users, are always up to date themselves on the latest patches and updates from software companies. They thrive on exploits and holes in the code which allow them to create techniques to get what they want from a user and their device(s). In some cases however we see all too well where no matter how updated all of your software is or how high of a level your firewall is set to, techniques will always bypass users such as phishing emails and fake downloads/apps.
About IntelliTeK Pty Ltd
IntelliTeK is a managed IT services company in Sydney, Australia. With major vendor relationships and accreditation’s from the worlds leading IT companies including WatchGuard, Microsoft, Trend Micro and Amazon Web Services, IntelliTeK have kept clients happy since 2007.
IntelliTeK are always up to date with the latest cloud backup solutions which is why we only partner with the best in the industry. If your company isn’t fully equipped to fend off cyber criminals, then get in touch with us so we can discuss your options. Call us on 1300 768 779, email us at info@intellitek.com.au, fill out the web form, or have a Live Chat with us below.