The world is changing, and so do our environment. Our job method has also evolved. With the passage of time, remote and hybrid working is more suitable nowadays; no one has to confine themselves in the offices.
Now people prefer cafes, coffee shops, or uneasy places like boats and vans, as so many people have access to work from home, it is also suitable for a change of vision.
You may travel for work or vacation purposes and need updates on your social media, email, and business application while on vacation, perhaps from a hotel, conference room, or airport location.
There is a high chance of free public Wi-Fi for anyone, but there is no safety that your data is safe while connecting to it. Here are some steps to secure your privacy and data from getting hacked using public Wi-Fi.
1. Avoid accessing personal information
While using public Wi-Fi, it is essential to avoid accessing any personal or sensitive information like bank accounts, e-mails, or even social media accounts. Sign in only to those sites that do not demand any kind of personal data, like you can stream videos online through free public Wi-Fi. But try to avoid using any site which can cause you to lose your data.
2. Utilizing VPN
First thing first, make VPN your best friend. A friend that will help you out through thin and thick. During your travel journey, VPN secures your information and creates a link between your mobile or laptop and the internet.
Ensure you use an authentic and reliable VPN before joining public Wi-Fi to protect your online activities. With the help of a VPN, you can securely reach to your desired site.
3. Turn off automation
Ever wonder why your phone always connects automatically to nearby Wi-Fi? An automatic Wi-Fi connection is like an unwanted problem and cannot be trusted easily.
So, always ensure to switch off the automatic connection to the public server to give you surety that you are connecting through a secure server.
4. HTTPS websites
During traveling, it is your most important duty to keep your data safe and secure; protection is better than crying over spilled milk. However, always use HTTPS sites because they prevent you from sharing your data and protect your information rather than HTTP.
5. Turn off Wi-Fi when not in use
The modern era has modern problems. Your data could be stolen in many ways or because of your negligence. So, it is always advised to switch off your Wi-Fi when you are not using it to prevent hackers from misusing your data while using public Wi-Fi.
6. Switch off file sharing
Everything is free doesn’t mean it’s safe. Make sure that the file-sharing option in your phone is not turned on, and if it is, then change the setting and disable the option from your device as it gives access to unauthorized sites.
7. Device software
Your phone is the prime medium to access to all of your data. To protect your device from malware, keep its software up-to-date. And if you are using a laptop, ensure you have installed an antivirus program.
8. Enabled firewall
A common problem around the USA is, on a regular basis, someone is suffering from getting hacked through free Wi-Fi. It is recommended to laptop users while surfing video streaming like Zee5 in the USA, enabled firewall on public Wi-Fi. The firewall works as a barrier or protector against malware.
9. Track your devices
We know people sometimes peek at the screen. So never leave your phone unattended in public places or on transportation; there is a high chance of people accessing your data. Be alert of your surroundings and cautious about people around you.
10. Aware of public Wi-Fi types
Somehow people need to learn that public Wi-Fi is of two types: secured and unsecured. By the name you already know which is safer for you to connect, whenever you get any chance, always connect to a secured network. It always requires your permission for registration or agreement to terms and conditions or asks you to type in your password before connecting to the network.
Conclusion
To put it into simple words, during your travel, you need the Internet to stay connected with your social life and family members but take precautions with you. With the above tips, you can use free public Wi-Fi without endangering your security while traveling.
Still, some key points to remember, use strong passwords always, to be aware of what you post while using public Wi-Fi, and it is better to use a mobile hotspot as it is safe for the device. It is convenient to use public Wi-Fi, but it also puts you in danger by exposing your sensitive data.
Also read: The Power of Panoramic WiFi: Unleashing Seamless Connectivity and Enhanced Internet Performance