Is free public Wi-Fi as safe as you think?

Public Wi-Fi is convenient, but is it secure? Many people use it daily without considering the risks. According to the Norton Wi-Fi Risk Report, in the UK:

  • 29% of people have used public Wi-Fi to check their bank accounts.
  • 42% of people can’t wait more than a few minutes to log onto a Wi-Fi network when they arrive somewhere new.
  • 64% of people have used public Wi-Fi to log in to their personal email accounts.
  • 55% of people say access to a strong Wi-Fi network is a deciding factor when choosing a holiday rental or hotel.

Public Wi-Fi: Open vs. Secured Networks

Public Wi-Fi refers to wireless networks in public spaces that are accessible to anyone within their range. However, some public Wi-Fi networks are safer than others.

  • Open Wi-Fi networks (no password required) lack encryption, meaning hackers can easily intercept your data.
  • Secured Wi-Fi networks require a password and use encryption, making them safer but not foolproof.

The risks associated with unsecured networks

When using free public Wi-Fi or any unsecured Wi-Fi network, your private information is at risk. Unsecured Wi-Fi networks are prime targets for cybercriminals, because unsecured network traffic is easier to intercept. Awareness of the risks of public Wi-Fi is the first step toward safeguarding your privacy when using public hotspots.

Public Wi-Fi can be dangerous thanks to these hacking risks:

  • · Man-in-the-Middle (MitM) attack: In this type of attack, the hacker will intercept information — such as your bank account credentials, credit card numbers, or social media logins — to eavesdrop on what you’re doing online.
  • Evil twin attack: An evil twin attack is when hackers create fake Wi-Fi networks that look like legitimate ones to trick you into connecting to them. If you connect to a hacker’s fake hotspot, they’ll likely be able to spy on whatever data you send over the fake network.

How to stay safer on free public Wi-Fi networks:

You need to take extra precautions when connecting to free Wi-Fi. Even if a public Wi-Fi connection is secured, vulnerabilities and threats may still exist. Follow these tips to stay safer online when using public Wi-Fi:

  1. Avoid sensitive transactions: Don’t access sensitive sites (like banking) or make financial transactions while on public Wi-Fi.
  2. Confirm Wi-Fi network names: Always ensure the Wi-Fi network is the one you intend to connect to. To be extra safe, use a VPN.
  3. Use a VPN: A virtual private network (VPN) encrypts your data, making it harder for hackers to intercept. It helps keep your data private.
  4. Turn off auto-connect: Disable the auto-connect feature on your devices to avoid connecting to unknown Wi-Fi networks automatically.

Stay safer on free Wi-Fi with Norton VPN, offered in Norton Benefit Plans

It’s essential to exercise caution when using public networks. By being aware of the risks, understanding the importance of encryption, and following best practices, you can significantly reduce the threats of free public Wi-Fi.

Remember, you’re not alone in your concerns about the safety of public Wi-Fi. Thankfully, solutions like Norton VPN, available in Norton Benefit Plans, help keep your online activity private and the data you send and receive more secure.

Learn more about protecting yourself while using public Wi-Fi on uk.Norton.com.

Norton Benefit Solutions offers a digital wellness benefit that helps empower employees with protection for their identity, devices, and online privacy.

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