Public WiFi is available almost everywhere you go. The expectations of consumers these days are such that they expect to get free WiFi access everywhere they go. For this reason, businesses of all sorts have started offering free WiFi access. From local restaurants and coffee shops to hotels and airports, public WiFi is available everywhere.
Although public WiFi makes life easier for us and allows us to access the internet conveniently without having to pay anything, it also poses security risks to our personal and sensitive information. If you plan to use a public WiFi network, then here is a list of Dos and Don’ts that you should follow.
Dos of Using Public WiFi
1. Connect to a Secure Public WiFi Network
The first Do of using a public WiFi network is that you should connect only to a secure public WiFi network whenever possible. Connecting to a secure or encrypted public WiFi network is a better option than connecting to an unsecured or unencrypted network. In the event that there is no secure public network available, you can connect to an unsecured WiFi network and access the internet given that it requires some sort of login or registration beforehand on http://10.0.0.1/ or any other private IP address.
2. Turn Off Automatic Connectivity
Whenever you are connecting to a public WiFi network, make sure that you do turn off automatic connectivity. Most devices have automatic connectivity settings turned on by default, which enables them to connect from one connection to the other. Although it is a convenient feature, it can sometimes connect your device to networks that you wouldn’t ordinarily use. Therefore, whenever you are traveling or visiting an unfamiliar place, then it is better to keep these settings turned off for your own good.
3. Use a VPN
Another Do of using public WiFi is using a VPN to ensure that your privacy and anonymity are protected on public WiFi networks. There are tons of VPNs available, both paid and free that can encrypt the data that you send and receive through the network. If you plan to use a public WiFi network, then Do think about using a VPN to secure the data that you send and receive over the network so that your information remains secured and encrypted from other users on the network.
Don’ts of Using Public WiFi
1. Don’t Access Bank Accounts
Whenever you are connected to a public WiFi network or an unsecured WiFi network, don’t think about accessing your bank account or sensitive personal data. Even secured public WiFi networks can have security flaws and accessing sensitive information on these networks always comes with its fair share of risks. Therefore, avoid accessing bank accounts or sensitive personal data on public WiFi networks and if you must access this type of information, then use your best judgment. Apart from bank accounts, if you need to access your Piso WiFi account to recharge your vendo, then you can do so on a public WiFi network.
2. Don’t Shop Online
Don’t shop online whenever you are connected to a public WiFi network. Yes, shopping online seems harmless, as it doesn’t involve sensitive data but making purchases online sometimes requires you to enter your bank account or credit card information. Therefore, shop only when you are connected to a private, secure WiFi network. Otherwise, just limit yourself to browsing products on public WiFi.
3. Don’t Leave Your Devices Unattended
Lastly, don’t leave your laptop or smartphone unattended in a public place when it is connected to the WiFi network. Even if the network is secure, you might not know when someone might take from your property or steal it. Therefore, never leave your devices unattended in public.
