Stay Safe Public Wi-Fi Hotspots

Get Safe Online has today issued a warning to the public and businesses to be cautious when accessing or supplying private data when connected to public Wi-Fi hotspots – particularly sensitive information relating to bank accounts, payments and other personal data.

Here are some simple tips which you should follow to stay safe when using public Wi-Fi networks:

1.       Don’t use the public Wi-Fi provided in places such as cafes, pubs and hotel rooms if doing anything confidential online, including logging into online accounts.

2.       Remember that just being given an access code or being asked for your email address, doesn’t indicate that the Wi-Fi connection is secure.

3.       Instead of using premises’ hotspots, use a mobile broadband dongle that is set to secure, your 3G or 4G data connection – even if it’s slower – or wait until you can access a router you know to be secure.

4.       Consider using a VPN (Virtual Private Network) to connect when accessing your company network. If you are a mobile worker, ask your IT department.

5.       Wherever possible, use well-known, commercial hotspot providers such as BT Wi-Fi.

6.       Ensure your home and office wireless networks are secured.

7.       It’s OK to use public Wi-Fi hotspots for things that you don’t have to log into or aren’t confidential, like checking the news or planning (but not booking) your next holiday.