Ever wonder if you’re safe using public Wi-Fi? If you’re not using an additional layer of security and encryption tools, the answer is probably NO. While public Wi-Fi can be an incredibly convenient way to connect to the internet in a mall or airport, it can put you at risk of being attacked by cybercriminals.
While connected to public Wi-Fi, hackers and cybercriminals can access your critical information. If you have no option but to connect to a public Wi-Fi network, you should take safeguards to protect your device and data. This can be done by using Surfshark VPN.
But first, we should understand what makes public Wi-Fi risky?
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What Makes Public Wi-Fi Risky?
Hackers may be able to spy on your personal information and sensitive data like your credit card credentials or search history when you’re accessing the internet on an unsecured network like Public Wi-Fi. They will also be able to monitor the keystrokes you make on your keyboard, allowing them to record your private conversations and your login and payment credentials.
Cybercriminals and data thieves can also circulate malware or launch worm attacks over public Wi-Fi networks. Even Public Wi-Fi networks with passwords are unsafe if that same password is available to anyone near it, such as a doctor’s office or a coffee shop.
The only way to safely use public Wi-Fi is by using a VPN; wondering how? Let’s see.
How does a VPN protect you on Public Wi-Fi?
A VPN makes public Wi-Fi safer by encrypting your connection and tunneling all data through an alternate server. Because all traffic filters through the VPN, anyone spying on your actions won’t see anything useful. At best, they may be able to identify the secure server you’re connected to, but bypassing the protections afforded by your VPN would be near-impossible and not worth the effort.
Because all data between your device and the VPN server is encrypted, not even your internet service provider (ISP) can monitor your activities. With a safe, secure connection, you remove much of the risk of using a public Wi-Fi connection.
Is Public Wi-Fi Safe to Use?
Hackers might make use of public Wi-Fi networks to find new victims. Criminals can readily access public networks since they are generally poorly safeguarded.
Bad actors can even set up their router and call it harmless, like “Free train Wi-Fi.” When a commuter connects to the network without realizing it, their personal information is exposed.
Your internet communication is encrypted when you use a VPN so that no one can intercept it via public Wi-Fi. Download VPN to encrypt your connection everywhere, so you don’t have to worry about external security. Cybercriminals won’t be able to get through the encryption barrier, and you’ll be safe.
How Does a VPN Offer an Additional Layer of Security?
Public Wi-Fi networks offer hackers an excellent opportunity to target new victims. Public connections are often poorly protected and easily accessed by criminals.
Alternatively, bad actors can set up their router and give it an innocuous name like “Free train Wi-Fi.” As soon as a commuter unthinkingly connects to the network, their private data can be exposed.
When you use a VPN, your internet traffic gets encrypted so that no one can intercept it via public Wi-Fi. VPN secures your connection everywhere, so you no longer need to care about external protection. Cybercriminals won’t be able to penetrate the wall of encryption, and you will stay secure.
Some VPN services, for example, have a function known as an “Internet Kill Switch.” This function safeguards your device and its prying eyes if your VPN connection is ever disrupted or terminated. It operates by blocking all internet-bound traffic to your device until your VPN connection is restored.
VPN clients may provide an Internet Kill Switch at the application level. This tool is handy for accessing private apps and information over a VPN. When a VPN disconnects, the Kill Switch closes that sensitive program and requires it to be reopened manually after reestablishing a secure connection.
Finding a VPN service with an Internet Kill Switch is an option for individuals who want extra protection when using public Wi-Fi.
Bottom Line
This article would have made you aware of some of the risks of utilizing public Wi-Fi. While we don’t want to frighten you away from what is frequently a helpful service, you should be aware of the risks and hazards that come with it, especially given the frequency of unscrupulous individuals attempting to exploit weak systems and misinformed users.
Being more aware of the services you use when on a public network is one method to limit your risk, but using the services of a reliable VPN is a more effective technique.
You still need to download VPN service to provide you with the privacy and security you deserve, even if you have nothing to hide.
