Dangers of Public WiFi & How to Use it Safely

Publicly accessible Wi-Fi is convenient and usually free, but is it safe to use? Cybersecurity experts advise against using public Wi-Fi without the proper precautions. To better protect yourself against hackers, it is essential to understand the risks and take steps to stay safe while using public Wi-Fi.  

What are the dangers of using public Wi-Fi? 

Because public Wi-Fi is typically unsecured, it poses a potential threat to your device and the personal information stored on it. This is especially dangerous if you’re accessing a banking application while on public Wi-Fi. 

Here are common ways hackers can steal your banking data on public Wi-Fi: 

Fake hotspots or Rogue Wi-Fi networks 

Cybercriminals create a fake Wi-Fi network to trick users into connecting to it. If you’re in a coffee shop, for example, cybercriminals will set up a fake hotspot that has a similar name to the legitimate one, think “Free Coffee Shop Wifi” versus “Coffee Shop Wifi”. 

Once you’re connected to the rogue Wi-Fi network, cybercriminals can see your every move, from knowing your internet habits to finding out what the PIN is on your banking app. 

The best way to avoid falling victim to this common trap is by paying attention to the network you’re signing into. Always make sure it’s the legitimate Wi-Fi provided by the establishment. 

Man-in-the-middle attacks (MitM) 

The man-in-the-middle attack is a commonly used tactic by hackers. They situate themselves between your device and the internet, allowing them to intercept everything you send. This includes logging into your banking app or sending messages with sensitive information. You may think you’re safely browsing the web or using your banking apps, but hackers are quietly watching your every move. 

Outdated devices or apps 

Having outdated devices or apps could leave you vulnerable to cyberattacks even if you’re using a relatively secure network. If you’re using an old version of your banking app, for example, hackers can take advantage of weak spots because your app is not updated with the latest security patches. 

Malware distribution 

Cybercriminals may push malware or pop-up messages onto your device, tricking you into installing harmful software. The malware will be used to monitor your actions or take over your device, which includes your banking apps. 

Aside from malware, they could also install spyware or keyloggers on your phone, leaving your entire device compromised. Even if you log off from the public Wi-Fi network, cybercriminals can still access your device. 

Is it safe to use public Wi-Fi for online banking? 

The short answer is no. Banking on public Wi-Fi may be convenient, but it’s not worth the risk. Public Wi-Fi networks lack common security features such as password protection and encryption. These networks were built for ease of use, not security. This makes it easy for cybercriminals to hack into, making it dangerous for the rest of us. 

When you’re connected to public Wi-Fi, a malicious third-party could easily access your phone, laptop, or tablet and steal important information like usernames and passwords. They could also intercept messages you send and receive while online or, even worse, take over your accounts. 

Banking on public Wi-Fi is especially risky because bank accounts are high-value targets. They hold your money and financial data, as well as other personal information that cybercriminals can use for identity theft or credit fraud. The worst part about this type of cyberattack is that you won’t know your information and bank accounts have been compromised until it’s too late.  

How to use public Wi-Fi safely 

There are times when you have no other choice but to use a public Wi-Fi network. Just because these networks aren’t ideal for online banking doesn’t mean they’re totally off limits. There are ways you can safely use public networks, which include: 

• Use a VPN (virtual private network). A VPN establishes a private and encrypted tunnel where your data is sent and received. This is especially useful when connecting to public, unsecured networks like Wi-Fi hotspots. Since your data is encrypted through the VPN, hackers will have a harder time getting your information. 
• Use only SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) connections. Enabling the “Always Use HTTPS” option on your web browsers ensures that the sites you visit have basic protection and encryption.
• Turn off sharing. By turning off file sharing, you’re limiting the data you’re exposing on the public network. This could add a layer of protection for your private information while you’re using public Wi-Fi. 
• Avoid accessing sensitive information. If you’re using the public network to casually browse online, study, or stream videos, the chances of you getting hacked are relatively slim. It’s best to stick to these non-sensitive online activities while you’re on public Wi-Fi. 
• Install antivirus software and keep your devices updated. Using browser extensions and antivirus software can significantly improve your safety while using public networks. Having updated software can also ensure that your device has the latest security patches. 

Using public Wi-Fi networks does have some risks, but there are ways you can safely use them. If you’d like to know more about ways you can protect yourself from cyberattacks and online scams, check out our security hub or the ACSC for more information.