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How to Use Public Wi-Fi Safely

By August 29, 2019Personal
a shopping center

Tips for using public Wi-Fi safely.

We all love free Wi-Fi – especially when we’re working from the library or airport or want to save data on your phone or laptop. Still, you do have to think carefully about security when you’re using a public network. Here are some tips to help you keep your data safe.

Practice good internet hygiene

Avoid using apps or loading websites that display your private information when using an unsecured Wi-Fi connection. It may be a good time to check the news or read your favorite blog rather than do your online banking. If a hacker is smart enough, he or she will be able to access information while the public Wi-Fi is being used.

Disable your Wi-Fi connection automatically

It’s child’s play for hackers to set up their own hotspots. As many smartphones can join nearby unencrypted wireless networks automatically, it’s best to disable this setting in your smartphone.

Close the apps you’re not using

Many apps continue to run in the background if they are opened and not closed. If you have fewer working in the background, there’s less opportunity for hackers to strike.

Use a VPN (virtual private network)

By using a VPN when you connect to public Wi-Fi, you’ll effectively be using a ‘private tunnel’ that encrypts all of your data that passes through the network. This can help to prevent cybercriminals that are lurking on the network from accessing your data.

We hope that these tips help you to use public Wi-Fi safely! For all of your personal and commercial insurance needs, contact the agents at Unisource Insurance Associates in Wisconsin.