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Why Using a Public Wi-Fi Network is Dangerous and Unsafe?

by John Miller Software Developer
The concept of Public Wi-Fi was to make it easy for the internet users to access internet easily in public places. However, it quickly became dangerous because of misuse due to popularity. It is always recommended not to do a financial transaction and confidential work using public Wi-Fi, but people are still doing this, thus being targeted by hackers. In this blog we discussed about a Public Wi-Fi Network is Dangerous and Unsafe.

No wonder, hackers target every public Wi-Fi user and infect the device with a malware as soon as they get a chance.

What’s worse is that malware can infect a computer, resulting in monitoring Wi-Fi networks for things like account/password pairs, without letting the owners of the computer know.

Here are some tips that you can follow to stay safe online:

Turn off sharing

While using public Wi-Fi, you can unknowingly allow hackers and other predators to remote login to the device and check in your privacy. Sometimes, it may lead to identity theft. Therefore, disable these ‘share’ settings before connecting to a public Wi-Fi network otherwise anyone else in the vicinity may be able to hack into your PC.

Use Two-Factor authentication

This method includes two pieces of information to log into any account. Among the two different kinds of information one is what you already know and another is the code sent to your registered phone or email. Popular websites like Gmail, support two-step verification. After enabling it, if someone is able to get your password exploiting a gap in a public Wi-Fi network, they won’t be able to log into your account.

Avoid automatically connecting to Wi-Fi hotspots

The device that you are using to connect internet may allowing the Wi-Fi hotspots to automatically connect. It can be a serious issue for the user’s privacy. This will also connect the device automatically to the malicious networks that can steal all your data.
The modern devices have this option automatically disabled, but cross-checking is always recommended. To disable it, go to Wi-Fi section and disable auto-connecting.

Protect your passwords

Always use a unique password for all the accounts. Doing so disconnects the security concerns for rest of the accounts, even if one of the accounts gets compromised. Using a password manager such as KeePass or LastPass can also help keep you safe and secure.

Turn on your firewall

Most of the operating systems have an in-built firewall. It helps in monitoring the outgoing and incoming information on the internet. To enable firewall:

  • Open control panel.
  • Locate firewall settings.
  • Then turn the firewall on by entering the administration password.

Use reliable antivirus software Like McAfee Total Protection

Using antivirus software always provide acts as a shield in combating with malware and other intruders. But make sure to keep the antivirus software updated for virus definitions.

Everyone loves using free Wi-Fi, but sometimes it can lead to big data loss and identity theft. Therefore, using antivirus software is always a great way to protect. You can download the McAfee Total Protection to secure your PC and data against harmful viruses and hackers.




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About John Miller Advanced   Software Developer

51 connections, 2 recommendations, 195 honor points.
Joined APSense since, February 19th, 2016, From Los Angeles, United States.

Created on Dec 31st 1969 18:00. Viewed 0 times.

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