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5 Security Threats You Can Experience From Public WiFi

We’ve all experienced the feeling of satisfaction and relief from finding out that the space or establishment we’ve entered provides free public WiFi. In fact, many often flock to cafes and restaurants with public WiFi to switch up their working environment and get the creative juices flowing. However, not everyone knows how dangerous Public WiFi hotspots actually are.

You might think you’re just checking your messages or uploading a picture on Instagram, but there are plenty of ways unscrupulous individuals can use this connection to defraud you, steal your information, and perform a number of other criminal acts. Whether you’re a business owner hoping to provide some convenience to customers who enter your establishment or a private individual who needs internet access on the go, you have to be aware of the following risks:

1) Man-in-the-Middle Attacks

MitM attacks are a digital form of eavesdropping. When users exchange data between their device and the internet, weaknesses in the system can allow hackers to read these transmissions. For example, logging into an unsecured network can allow internet criminals to capture your login details. If you happen to use the same password for all your accounts, then they only need one to exploit multiple weaknesses.

2) Unencrypted Networks

When a network is “encrypted,” it means that the information exchanged between devices on the network and the internet communicate using a secret code that only the routers understand. However, most routers are sold in their unencrypted state. Even if an IT professional installed the routers and new network, it is still essential to make sure that the network is encrypted.

3) Malware

On a public network, a cybercriminal can inject your computer with malware, which is a term that refers to viruses and other malicious programming. Experienced hackers can target weaknesses in your system and write codes that automatically inject malware into any device that happens to use the network. As such, it is important to have anti-malware software installed on your computer.

4) Sniffing

Attackers can create and buy devices and kits that allow them to eavesdrop and access WiFi signals. Everything from your internet history to your login details might end up in the hands of unscrupulous individuals. This data may eventually be used to steal your financial details or your entire identity. Though a credit card company might reverse the fraudulent charges eventually, this involves a long and arduous process that requires an investigation. Your best bet is to use a mobile VPN to mask your signal no matter what network you may be on.

5) Rogue Access Points

These are malicious hotspots that masquerade as legitimate networks by more reputable businesses. For example, you might think you’re connected to the McDonald’s Wifi, but fail to see that it’s actually misspelled as McDomald’s. All the activity you conduct on this network will then be recorded for future criminals unless you protect yourself with a mobile VPN.

Final Thoughts

As digital technology grows by leaps and bounds, so too does cybercrime. Cybercrime accounts for billions of dollars in losses every year. As of now, there is no measuring the magnitude of the damage from all the data leaks of the last decade. As a business owner, you would do well to secure your network not just for the safety of your customers, but of your business as well.

If you’re looking for a mobile VPN provider, Radio IP Software delivers innovative security that provides mobile workforces with secure, real-time access to a wide range of applications and networks.