Is it safe using a Public Wi-Fi Point?
Using public Wi-Fi (in cafés, trains, airports, or shops) requires caution. Although convenient, these networks can sometimes be monitored by criminals. The safest rule is to treat all public Wi-Fi points as insecure.
If you really need to connect to a public Wi-Fi point, follow this quick guide to stay safe.
1. Before You Connect
Verify the Network: Criminals can set up “Evil Twin” hotspots with names like “Café_Free_Wi-Fi.” To make sure you connect to the right one, always ask staff for the official network name.
Use a VPN: A Virtual Private Network (VPN) is your best defence. It wraps your data in an encrypted tunnel, making it unreadable to others on the same network.
Disable Auto-Connect: Stop your device from automatically joining any nearby open Wi-Fi networks by turning off “Auto-Join” in your Wi-Fi settings.
Update Your Device: Ensure your phone, tablet or laptop has the latest security updates installed before you leave the house.
2. While You Are Online
Avoid Sensitive Tasks: Never use public Wi-Fi for online banking, shopping, or accessing sensitive emails . Don’t use any of your PASSWORDS over a public Wi-Fi point.
Check for the Padlock: Only visit websites starting with https://. Look for the padlock icon in the address bar; this means your specific connection to that site is encrypted.
Turn Off Sharing: Disable “File Sharing,” “AirDrop,” or “Nearby Share” so others on the network cannot see your files.
Use Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) also known as Two-Step Verification (2SV) for your email and Social Media accounts: This can stop hackers even if they manage to steal your password.
Watch out for “Shoulder Surfers”: Be mindful of people looking over your shoulder at your screen in busy public areas.
3. After Using the Network
”Forget” the Network: Once finished, go to your settings and select “Forget this network” so your device doesn’t reconnect automatically next time you walk past.
Log Out: Manually log out of any apps or websites you used during the session.
4. The Better Alternatives
Use your mobile phone’s 4G or 5G connection: Your mobile phone’s data connection is significantly more secure than public Wi-Fi.
Personal Hotspot: Using your own phone as a Wi-Fi hotspot for your laptop is much safer than using a public Wi-Fi provider.
Look for “Friendly Wi-Fi”: In the UK, look for the “Friendly Wi-Fi” colourful logo. This is a government-initiated standard showing the provider filters out inappropriate content.
How to Report Cybercrime & Fraud
If you believe you have been a victim of a scam:
Report to Report Fraud: Use the official online reporting tool at – UK’s Home for Reporting Cyber Crime & Fraud – Report Fraud or call 0300 123 2040.
Contact Your Bank: If money is involved, call your bank immediately. You can reach most UK bank fraud departments by dialling 159.