When connecting to a public Wi-Fi networkIt is very important to take into account the security risks. There may be intruders who steal passwords, personal data and any information we exchange. To prevent this from happening, a very interesting option is to use a VPN. When browsing through this type of program, the connection is encrypted and we avoid problems. But is it enough? In this article we talk about what else you should do for security.
Thinking that we are protected in a public network simply by use a vpn it’s a mistake. We can suffer very varied attacks and it is convenient to be prepared so as not to have problems. Cybercriminals could use multiple strategies to steal passwords and data of all kinds without us noticing.
Tips when using public Wi-Fi
public networks We can find them in places like a library, a shopping center, an airport… Although they are not always going to be dangerous, the risk is present. You don’t really know who might be behind that network and how they could intercept your data while browsing the Internet.
update devices
Something fundamental that you must do is have the updated devices. If you are going to connect to a public Wi-Fi network from your computer, it is convenient that you have the system updated correctly. The same if it is the mobile or any other device that you are going to use to navigate.
In case of using outdated systems, they could have vulnerabilities that can be exploited by attackers. Even if you use a VPN, that’s not going to protect you on public Wi-Fi from many security breach attacks. Therefore, it is key to have everything updated and avoid problems.
Use a good antivirus
Have a good anti virus it is also a key factor. If you browse public Wi-Fi networks, it is possible that you enter a page that could be a fraud and where you end up downloading a virus without realizing it. That could lead to the theft of information, passwords, or the equipment starting to go wrong.
If you have a good security program, it can detect malicious software. There are many options, both free and paid. For example, we can name some like Microsoft Defender, Avast or Bitdefender. You can install them both on the PC and on the phone.
Not make mistakes
But most important of all is the common sense and not make mistakes. It doesn’t matter if you are connected to a public Wi-Fi network, whether with or without VPN, or simply on the Internet at home; In all cases you must avoid making mistakes that hackers can exploit and attack you.
A clear example of an error is entering a false page, where they request to log in, and putting the data there. It is a Phishing attack, a classic in the theft of credentials and passwords. Beware of this type of error when you browse the Internet.
As you can see, if you connect to a public Wi-Fi network, you should not only take into account the use of a VPN. It is important that you have your computer well protected, that it is updated, with a good antivirus and avoid making mistakes. You can always use Wi-Fi outside the home, but you must do it safely.
