Feb 28, 2020 · Public WiFi is a god-send for those who are constantly on the move or on a strict data plan. However, can you be certain that these public networks are as secure as your own back at home? Public WiFi networks are the perfect targets for hackers – most lack even basic security measures, and many more attract potential victims in droves. Biz & IT — Even with a VPN, open Wi-Fi exposes users Those moments between Wi-Fi connect and VPN launch can give away a lot. Larry Seltzer - Jun 12, 2015 1:15 pm UTC 14 Tips for Public Wi-Fi Hotspot Security. Public Wi-Fi hotspots can be a hacker's paradise. Following these basic security tips can mean the difference between safe surfing and an ID theft or Public WiFi Security In a recent survey, 70% of tablet owners and 53% of smartphone / mobile phone owners stated that they use public Wi-Fi hotspots. However, because data sent through public Wi-Fi can easily be intercepted, many mobile device and laptop users are risking the security of their personal information, digital identity and money.

In addition, using a public computer lends itself to even more pitfalls. A potential identity thief might have installed a virus or monitoring software that is poised to steal your information. The takeaway: Don’t use public WiFi or a public computer to do your taxes. If you were considering going to your public library or using a computer at

WiFi, which is short for “Wireless Fidelity,” is a simple way to connect multiple computers wirelessly so they can share data without cables running everywhere. A router broadcasts a wireless signal that gets picked up by your computer and establishes the connection.

The dangers of using public wifi. Although public wifi networks seem like they should be safe, they can offer many opportunities for hackers and cybercriminals to intercept your internet traffic. This can enable them to view your personal information, take over your accounts, steal files for use in extortion, and more.

HTTPS is secure over public hotspots. Only a public key and encrypted messages are transmitted (and these too are signed by root certificates) during the setup of TLS, the security layer used by HTTPS. The client uses the public key to encrypt a master secret, which the server then decrypts with its private key. HTTPS is built to secure connection every where people access a secured website; but there is always a risk of using HTTPS over public WiFi networks, as public wifi networks are sometimes being trapped by MITM (Man In-The Middle Attack).