Public wireless networks can be a good way to "stay connected." However, although it is convenient, this service is not very secure. Most hotspots do not encrypt what goes over the Internet. This means if someone sends email, manage a calendar, uses social networks, or transmits financial data while using a public network, he/she may make it easier for hackers to access his/her accounts. The FTC advise that new hacking tools (freely available online) make it easy to access unencrypted information, which could be used to scam someone.
The FTC offers these tips:
- When using a WiFi hotspot, only log in or send personal info to sites you know are fully encrypted. Look for https at the beginning of the web address (the "s" is for secure) and a lock icon at the top or bottom of your browser window. Some sites use encryption only on the sign-in page, but if any part of your session isn't encrypted, you could be at risk. So check for https and the lock icon the whole time you're on the site, not just when you sign in.
- Don't stay permanently signed in to accounts. When you've finished, log out.
- Don't use the same password on different websites. Otherwise, a hacker who steals one password may be able to access a bunch of your accounts.
- If you travel a lot or use the local coffee shop as your office, consider a virtual private network (VPN). VPNs encrypt traffic between your computer and the internet, even on unsecured networks. You can get a personal VPN account from a VPN service provider.
OnGuard Online: Wise Up about Wi-Fi: Tips for Using Public Wireless Networks
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