Public Wi-Fi networks are everywhere, from shopping malls, hotels, and airports to coffee shops and even some retail stores. When you don’t have enough data or you need to stay connected for a few hours while you wait, these networks are lifesavers, because they’re free and pretty fast too.
Unfortunately, there’s an important question you should be asking yourself: Are they safe? The answer goes well beyond a simple yes or no. In technology, like everywhere else, what matters more than the tool itself is how you use it.
So, in truth, public Wi-Fi networks aren’t inherently malicious. They just tend to lack the security measures that home networks typically provide. Here’s how to recognize the safe public networks you can enjoy, and what to do to stay safe if you need to use them.
The risks of public Wi-Fi
Before we dive into the main topic, let’s get one thing out of the way: most public Wi-Fi connections are risky because they don’t have strong authentication or encryption protocols. That means that there’s a relatively high chance that your activity might be visible to people connected to the same network.
Forbes has declared that cybercriminals lurk around open networks to harvest login data and banking information. The risk grows even more because most users aren’t aware of this and connect without considering some security measures, like using a VPN or secure websites.
Here’s what to look for if you want to know whether or not your local public Wi-Fi has some level of safety measures in place.
1. The network requires you to enter a password.
Why it matters: Open networks are easily accessible by anyone, including cybercriminals. A password doesn’t make a network completely safe, but at least it may limit the number of people who have access to it.
Here’s a quick check:
- If a coffee shop offers a Wi-Fi password only after you’ve ordered something, you’re already a little bit safer than just any open-access network.
- You could ask if the network uses WPA2 or WPA3 protocols, which are, for public spaces, the most secure options. Don’t assume that a password means you’re safe!
2. The network enforces HTTPS connections
Even if the network isn’t secured with a password, the websites you visit can have layers of protection embedded in them.
Look for these signs:
- The URL begins with “https://” and your browser has a padlock icon at the left. This signals a safe website.
- A good sign for some networks is that they might automatically redirect you to HTTPS versions of websites. In that case, you know it won’t be easy for hackers to steal your data.
Extra tip: Some browser extensions can also help you get secure versions of websites if you enable them.
3. You have a captive portal login
If you often have to connect to public networks, there’s a high chance that you’ve seen this in hotels or airports: a screen that pops up when you connect to the Wi-Fi and asks you to log in or accept some terms before letting you browse.
Here is what this means:
- While it doesn’t mean you’re completely safe, captive portals are an indication that the network is being monitored and won’t likely allow rogue access points.
- Some of these require email or room number verifications, and this adds a good layer of legitimacy to the network.
Still, don’t go in blindly. This measure doesn’t protect your traffic. You’re just authenticating your identity to the router, not encrypting your data.
4. The venue is legitimate and well-known
Connecting to the network of a reputable hotel or an airline lounge is a lot safer than just connecting to a random “free Wi-Fi” network in a park or public space.
It’s always best to ensure you get at least a WPA2 encryption, rather than using some password-free option that might end up with your data stolen and sold online.
Some hackers also employ “evil twin” attacks on networks with similar names to those of a reputable place, so double-check the network name with the staff of the hotel or restaurant.
5. Find out the network’s encryption standards
Every network has its form of encryption, and thankfully, it’s not difficult to find out which ones are the best. If the network you’re connected to uses WPA3, we’re talking about the latest security protocol, and it’s as safe as you’re going to get for a public connection. WPA2 is also acceptable as an alternative.
However, avoid anything that uses the WEP protocol: it’s outdated and easily cracked.
To find out what kind of encryption the network has, you can do the following:
- On Windows, right-click the Wi-Fi network, click on properties, and check under “security type”.
- On Mac, hold the “option” key and click the Wi-Fi icon to see what the encryption protocol is.
6. Use a VPN to stay safe
With the right VPN, you can even safely connect to unsecured networks — it changes the game. A VPN encrypts all the data that travels between your device and the internet, and you’re protected from everything, including the internet provider itself.
If you enjoy working at cafes or you travel often, you might think that connecting to an open network is harmless. But, to keep your personal information protected, it’s a smart move to use a VPN iOS app that can encrypt your data and hide your IP address, even if you’re on the go.
Protecting yourself when the network isn’t safe
Even if you have all the signs that a network is secure, it’s best to assume that public networks will always be monitored by suspicious actors, or that they might not offer a high level of protection after all. Here’s what you should do to keep most of your data safe in case you don’t have other tools:
Stop file sharing
Disable all file sharing software, like AirDrop, printer sharing, or network discovery when you’re using public Wi-Fi.
Use two-factor authentication
Now, whether you connect to public networks or not, this is a very smart measure to take for your everyday security. With 2FA, even if someone cracks your password, they won’t be able to access your account unless you manually authorize the login. Yes, it’s an extra step, but it protects you a lot more than you might think!
Don’t access confidential information.
Avoid logging into your bank account, checking health records, or shopping online when you’re using public Wi-Fi! All of this is highly valuable data, and what hackers are looking for.
Keep your software updated regularly
Most software updates are done to keep up with new forms of cyberattacks, so update everything as often as it’s needed. Most updates nowadays are automatic, but if some aren’t, make sure to do them as soon as the system requires it.
To sum up
Public Wi-Fi networks can be very convenient, but not everything is perfect, and sometimes it’s just not worth risking your data. A few signs, like password protection, safe encryption, and VPN usage, might reduce the risks you’re taking, but you’re not completely safe.
That’s why you should be cautious: in the end, it comes down to how much you value your right to privacy and the data you’ve got online. Use your common sense, stay informed, and secure your device rather than just assuming these networks are safe.
