Many of us have logged into public Wi-Fi before without even giving it a second thought. However, there is a reason as to why public Wi-Fi is free and these will become clear from this blog. It's worth remembering that free doesn't always mean good.
Public Wi-Fi points or hotspots are exactly that for cybercriminals, they provide them with unrestricted access to the things we buy, look at and share over the internet. Once hackers have these details, they can steal the information you are sharing. This is the equivalent to a burglar not needing a key to walk through your front door and steal from your home
Hackers do this by positioning themselves between your device (so your phone, tablet or laptop) and once they have done this, they are able to intercept the information you are sharing. So, picture this… you’re working away sending emails to those within and outside of your organisation and whilst doing this, a hacker has been given access to everything you’re sending out on the internet. This includes important emails, credit card information, passwords, and other login credentials.
This information is then collected up by the hacker, where they can then use the data to access your systems pretending to be you. Often, this information is also sold on to other cybercriminals who will then be able to use this information to do things like compromise other accounts you use, such as your social media accounts or trick you into a phishing attack.
What is a Phishing?
Phishing is when attackers attempt to trick users into doing 'the wrong thing', such as clicking a bad link that will download dangerous software onto your device or direct them to a dodgy website. Phishing can be conducted via a text message, social media, or by phone, but the term 'phishing' is mainly used to describe attacks that arrive by email.
Whilst using public Wi-Fi is risky, there are some simple steps you can take so you can use it safely, these are:
Take the next step to protect yourself and your business
Improve your business’s cyber security with free membership at the Cyber Resilience Centre for the West Midlands.
With this membership, you will receive regular tips and guidance on how to firm up your business’s cyber security. We have already produced checklists for you to follow to help you develop best practices, short and easy to follow videos that highlight how to spot the signs of a phishing attack and many other resources.
Receive your digestible welcome pack when signing up today and start protecting your business today.
Click to Open Code Editor