How to Access and Use Free Public Wi-Fi Hotspots Safely

Public Wi-Fi hotspots are wireless networks that allow anyone to connect to the internet for free.  They’re usually provided by businesses, NGOs, or governments to attract customers or promote digital inclusion. While these free Wi-Fi networks are convenient and cost-effective, they also come with some risks and threats. Anyone on the same Wi-Fi network as you can possibly monitor or intercept your online activity, and access private information such as passwords, emails, messages, or bank account data. You may also encounter malware or phishing attempts that try to trick you into downloading harmful software or revealing sensitive information. 

In this article, we will show you how to connect to public Wi-Fi networks safely and provide security tips you need to follow to protect your data and privacy.

How to Use Public Wi-Fi Safely and Securely

1. Verify the authenticity of the Wi-Fi hotspot before you connect

Not all public Wi-Fi networks are legitimate or safe. Some of them might be set up by hackers or scammers who want to steal your personal information or infect your device with malware. Therefore, you need to be careful and verify the authenticity of the network before you connect to it. Here are some tips to help you do that:

• Check the name of the network and make sure it matches the name of the establishment.
• Look for signs or stickers that indicate the name and password of the network. For example, a Wi-Fi symbol or a banner that says “Free Wi-Fi Here.”
• Avoid connecting to networks that have generic or suspicious names, such as “Free Wi-Fi” or “Public Wi-Fi.”
• Look for networks that have a lock icon next to them, which means they are encrypted and require a password.
• Verify the network name and password with the staff or owner of the establishment.
• Use a website or an app that helps you locate and rate free Wi-Fi hotspots, such as Wi-Fi Map or Instabridge.

2. Use a Virtual Private Network (VPN)

There are numerous free and premium VPN apps you can install on your device and activate before accessing the internet through a public Wi-Fi hotspot. These apps encrypt your data and hide your IP address whenever you access the internet. This way, hackers or other third parties cannot intercept or monitor your online activity, or access your device without your permission.

3. Turn off AirDrop

If you have an Apple device, you may have AirDrop enabled, which allows you to share files with other nearby devices. This can be useful, but it can also expose your device to unwanted requests or transfers from strangers. To prevent this, turn off AirDrop when you use public Wi-Fi.

4. Visit only secure “HTTPS” websites 

While surfing the internet through a public Wi-Fi network, make sure the websites you visit have HTTPS at the beginning of their address. This means that the connection between your device and the website is encrypted, and your data is protected from prying eyes. You can also look for a padlock icon in your browser’s address bar, which indicates that the website is secure.

5. Avoid sensitive activities 

Even with a VPN, you should avoid doing anything that involves your personal or financial information, such as logging into your bank account, shopping online, or sending confidential emails. These activities are better done on your own network or with a trusted one.

6. Turn off file sharing and Bluetooth 

File sharing and Bluetooth features allow us to transfer files or connect to other devices wirelessly. However, when they aren’t turned off, they may let other people access your private information, including passwords, bank accounts, or photos. While using a public Wi-Fi network, you should turn off file sharing and Bluetooth to avoid unwanted access or attacks from other users within range.

Conclusion

Free Wi-Fi hotspots are a great way to access the internet for free. However, you also need to be aware of the security risks to avoid malicious attacks and giving away your private information. If you adhere to the above best practices, you can enjoy accessing the internet safely and securely.