WIFI networks
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While public Wi-Fi hotspots in places like coffee shops, airports, and hotels are handy, they often lack robust security. Always assume caution when connected.
Protecting Your Data:
- Encryption is Key: Always ensure the websites you visit use HTTPS (look for the padlock in the URL bar), which means they encrypt data between your device and the site.
- Use a VPN: For the best protection on public networks, use a VPN (Virtual Private Network). It encrypts all your data, making it hard for eavesdroppers to understand. Opt for reputable VPN providers, especially if they charge a fee-free isn't always safe. Learn more about VPNs.
- Avoid Sensitive Transactions: Refrain from accessing websites that require personal, financial, or sensitive information while on public Wi-Fi.
Network Verification:
- Wi-Fi networks. Beware of Wi-Fi names trying to mimic legitimate hotspots. If unsure about which network to connect to, ask an employee of the establishment.
- Don’t Assume a Wi-Fi Hotspot is Secure. Most Wi-Fi hotspots do not encrypt the information you send over the internet and are not secure.
- When using a Wi-Fi hotspot, only log in or send personal information to websites that you know are fully encrypted. If you use an unsecured network to log in to an unencrypted site - or a site that uses encryption only on the sign-in page - other users on the network can see what you see and what you send.
- Try to verify it’s a legitimate wireless connection. Always confirm the legitimacy of a Wi-Fi network before connecting to it; do not rely on the name alone. If there are multiple access points for the same venue, ask a staff member which one to use. Some bogus links – that have been set up by malicious users – will have a connection name that’s deliberately similar to the coffee shop, hotel, or venue that’s offering free Wi-Fi. If you can speak with an employee at the location that’s providing the public Wi-Fi connection, ask for information about their legitimate Wi-Fi access point – such as the connection’s name and IP address.
- Forget the network. Once you are all done with your Web browsing, make sure to log off any services you were signed into. Then, tell your device to forget the network. This means that your phone or PC won't automatically connect again to the network if you're in range.
Device Safety Tips:
- Two-factor Authentication (2FA): Enable 2FA for accounts that support it. It provides an extra security layer, ensuring even if someone gets your password, they can't access your account without the second verification step. App-based or hardware token-based 2FA methods are more secure than SMS-based ones.
- Disable Automatic Connections: Ensure your device doesn't automatically connect to available Wi-Fi networks. This reduces the risk of unknowingly connecting to a malicious network.
- Forget Networks Post-use: Once done, disconnect from the public Wi-Fi and ensure your device "forgets" the network to avoid automatic reconnection later.
- Update Regularly: Keep your OS and web browsers up-to-date. Modern versions often have improved security features to protect against current threats.
- Software Caution: Only install or update software on trusted networks. Public networks might expose you to threats, such as fake software updates.
- Don’t stay permanently signed in to accounts. When you’ve finished using an account, log out.
- Do not use the same password on different websites. It could give someone who gains access to one of your accounts access to many of your accounts.
- Many web browsers alert users who try to visit fraudulent websites or download malicious programs. Pay attention to these warnings, and keep your browser and security software up-to-date.
- Avoid using specific types of websites. It’s a good idea to avoid logging into websites where there’s a chance that cybercriminals could capture your identity, passwords, or personal information – such as social networking sites, online banking services, or any websites that store your credit card information.
- Enable two-factor authentication. It's good practice to enable two-factor authentication on services that support it. This way, even if someone does manage to sniff out your password when on public Wi-Fi, you have an added layer of protection. Also, use one form of two-factor for logging in, and a second, different two-factor combo for recovery.
Important Note: Windows and Mac systems may have slight variations based on the OS version. Always refer to the documentation or online resources specific to your version for precise steps.
WINDOWS:
- Disabling File Sharing & Marking Public Network: Go to: Control Panel > Network and Sharing Center > Change Advanced Sharing Settings. Under 'Public', turn off the file-sharing option.
- Activating Windows Firewall: Go to: Control Panel > Windows Firewall. Ensure the firewall is activated, especially when connected to a public network.
- Preventing Automatic Connection to Networks: In the Control Panel > Network and Sharing Center, click on the network name. Select "Wireless Properties" and uncheck "Connect automatically when this network is in range."
MAC:
- Disabling File Sharing: Navigate to: System Preferences > Sharing. Deselect the 'File Sharing' checkbox.
- Activating Firewall: Navigate to: System Preferences > Security & Privacy > Firewall tab. Ensure the firewall is turned on.
- Preventing Automatic Connection to Networks: Navigate to: System Preferences > Network > Wi-Fi > Advanced. Deselect "Remember networks this computer has joined." You can also individually forget networks by selecting the name and clicking the minus (-) button.
ANDROID:
- Forgetting a Network: Go to your Wi-Fi network list. Long press the network name and select "Forget Network."
iOS:
- Forgetting a Network: Go to: Settings > Wi-Fi. Click the "i" icon next to the network name and select "Forget This Network."
- Prompt before Connecting: In the Wi-Fi settings, turn on "Ask To Join Networks" for added security.