Why You Really Need to Stop Using Public WiFi

Public Wi-Fi is commonly found almost everywhere, whether it’s in coffee shops, airports, hotels, schools, or even on the streets, offering great convenience. Some people even choose not to subscribe to a mobile network provider's internet package because free public Wi-Fi is available. However, free services might come with hidden risks, so it’s important to exercise caution when using public Wi-Fi.

What is Public Wi-Fi?

Public Wi-Fi, often referred to as a "public hotspot," is a point where we can access the internet using Wi-Fi technology through a wireless local area network (WLAN). It typically operates through a router that provides the internet signal. While this seems advantageous for those who want to avoid the cost of a mobile internet subscription, public Wi-Fi can make it easier for others, including malicious actors, to access our data. When you connect to a public Wi-Fi network, it means you are transmitting your personal information through websites or mobile apps, making it easier for hackers to intercept and misuse this information.

Why Should You "Stop Using Public Wi-Fi"?

We’ve compiled 10 methods that hackers use to compromise information on public Wi-Fi:

1.Unencrypted Networks

Encryption is crucial for keeping your personal data safe online. It involves converting data sent over the internet into codes to prevent unauthorized access. Most public Wi-Fi hotspots do not encrypt data, making it possible for others on the same network to see what you are doing, such as entering personal or financial information. This lack of security makes public Wi-Fi unsafe.

2.Poor Wi-Fi Settings 

Advances in technology and more effective hacking methods mean that small mistakes in Wi-Fi settings can become major security threats. Business owners or staff setting up the network might not always implement all necessary security measures. They might use default usernames and passwords, making it easy for anyone to access the network.

3.Man-in-the-Middle (MitM) Attacks 

A Man-in-the-Middle (MitM) attack occurs when a hacker intercepts communication between a user and a server via public Wi-Fi, allowing them to capture, read, or alter the data being transmitted. For example, online banking transactions can be compromised. MitM attacks on public Wi-Fi are alarmingly easy; HideMyAss found that a 7-year-old could hack a public Wi-Fi network and steal data from connected computers within 11 minutes using a laptop and online tutorials.

4.Malware

 Security vulnerabilities in operating systems and software can allow hackers to introduce malware into your computer without your knowledge. For instance, hackers might send you an email with a malicious file attachment. When you open this file, harmful software installs itself on your computer and can access your personal or financial information.

5.DNS Spoofing 

DNS Spoofing, or DNS Cache Poisoning, involves hackers tricking DNS servers into providing incorrect data, leading users to fake websites controlled by the hackers instead of legitimate ones. This can be used to capture personal information or compromise systems. For example, a hacker might redirect users trying to access their bank’s website to a fake site that looks identical, capturing login credentials.

6.Rogue Devices 

Rogue devices are used by hackers to intercept data transmitted over Wi-Fi networks. These devices can collect data from users on the network. For instance, a hacker might place a rogue device in a public area like a coffee shop or shopping mall to capture users' Wi-Fi connection information, including login details or other personal data.

7.Session Hijacking 

Session Hijacking involves hackers stealing session data, such as login cookies or authentication tokens, to gain access to accounts or services without needing the user’s login information. For example, after you log into your email account, a hacker can steal your session data and access your account without your password, allowing them to read or send emails from your account.

8.Credential Harvesting 

Credential Harvesting is when hackers use methods such as fake websites or phishing to extract login details or important information from users connected to public Wi-Fi. For instance, a hacker might send a deceptive email with a link to a fake bank login page. When users enter their login details on this fake page, the hacker captures their credentials.

9.Evil Twin Attacks 

Evil Twin Attacks involve hackers creating a fake Wi-Fi access point with a name similar to a legitimate public Wi-Fi network, such as those in coffee shops or airports. Users might unknowingly connect to this fake network instead of the real one. Once connected, hackers can capture all the data transmitted over this fake network.

10.Packet Sniffing 

Packet Sniffing involves using special tools to capture and analyze data transmitted over a Wi-Fi network. Unencrypted data, such as login information or transaction details, can be intercepted. This is particularly problematic on public Wi-Fi networks that do not use encryption protocols like HTTPS. Hackers using packet sniffing tools can collect sensitive information, including credit card numbers and personal details.

Public Wi-Fi in Your Favorite Coffee Shop Could Be a Threat

If you must use public Wi-Fi, it is essential to connect through a VPN to enhance your internet security. We recommend BullVPN, which encrypts all your data, protecting you from hackers and data interception. Browse the internet freely, bypass website blocks, and keep your online identity private with BullVPN. Visit www.bullvpn.com for more information.