Not all Wi-Fi is safe!

Public or open Wi-Fi refers to public locations that offer a password-free Wi-Fi experience. For many of us this seems very appealing as its a break from using up all of our own data; however, these locations should also have a sign advising users to enter this Wi-Fi space at your own discretion

Why we shouldn’t use open/public Wi-Fi networks:

• Servers are NOT ENCRYPTED
  • Encryption ensures that information sent between your computer and the server has been hashed, meaning coded in a way that will not allow threat actors to use it for their benefit.
• Threat actors can remotely access your device.
• Threat actors can store code on these servers that look for specific vulnerabilities and automatically download themselves to devices it can exploit.
• Threat actors can use tools that help them impersonate secure networks.
  • For example, if you’re staying at a reputable hotel that offers Wi-Fi you wouldn’t be on high alert to ensure you’re connecting to the right network.
    • Threat actors can create and set up networks that look like the secure network you’re looking for. So if you’re staying at The Best Hotel Ever. There may be a network labeled BestWiFiEver that pops up at the top of the list and seems like it fits. Networks can be named anything the user wants to name it. If you believe the Wi-Fi is secure ask an employee what the accurate network name.

Do’s and Dont’s

• Do turn off file sharing.
• Don’t allow your device to automatically connect to any networks.
• Do visit sites that have “https://”
• Don’t leave your Wi-Fi or Bluetooth on when not in use.
• Do use VPN’s
• Don’t log in to sites that have personal information like your banking information.
• Do log out of any accounts you may have accessed.
• Don’t log in to networks that are not password protected/ or not encrypted.