When traveling, chances are you will encounter a Wi-Fi hotspot (network) or two.
Wi-Fi in airports, hotels, train stations, coffee shops, and
other public places can be convenient, but they are often not secure and can
leave you at risk.
Whether you are entertaining the kids by streaming a video on
a tablet, downloading new travel apps on your smartphone or even taking your
tablet poolside, there are precautions you should take to make sure your
personal information is safe.
First and foremost, connect with care. If you are online
through an unsecured network, you should be aware that individuals with
malicious intent may have established a Wi-Fi network with the intent to
eavesdrop on your connection. This could allow them to steal your credentials,
financial information, or other sensitive and personal information. It is also
possible that they could infect your system with malware.
Any free Wi-Fi should
be considered to be “unsecure.”
STOP. THINK. CONNECT.
Tips to remember when using Wi-Fi:
- Keep an
updated machine. Having the latest security software, operating system, web
browser and apps can help protect you from the malware and other threats you
may encounter when using Wi-Fi.
- Do not assume the Wi-Fi connection is secure. Many hotspots do not encrypt the
information you send on the Wi-Fi network.
- Do not log into accounts, especially financial accounts, when using public wireless networks.
- It is not uncommon for
cybercriminals to set up a Wi-Fi network called “free Wi-Fi” in airports,
hotels, and other public places.
- A
cellular 3G/4G connection is generally safer than a Wi-Fi connection.
- Consider turning off features on your computer or mobile devices that allow you to automatically connect to Wi-Fi.