It's alright to use public WiFi, but let's learn about the real threats and how to shield yourself.
The Half Myth:
We're often warned against public WiFi at airports, stations, libraries, or coffee shops - half nonsense, half truth. With planned caution, it's perfectly fine to enjoy public WiFi especially when your 5G signal becomes 3G.
The Real Risks:
Faking: It is very easy to create a fake public WiFi controlled by a hacker. So what says "Starbucks-Public" may not be real. Technically this threat is known as "Man-in-the-middle".
Privacy: The WiFi provider will track your online activity.
Anonymity: You can be traced easily.
Confidentiality: The rogue WiFi will inject scripts to snatch passwords and account numbers.
Breach: If your laptop does not have a firewall the WiFi operator can get in!
Spamming: WiFi providers could sneak in ads.
Censorship: They might play gatekeeper, blocking sites and redirecting your traffic.
How to Arm Yourself:
1. Embrace a robust VPN; I rely on my WireGuard-based VPN with a pre-shared key and a kill switch. ProtonVPN is a worthy alternative.
2. Ensure your DNS traffic takes the VPN route.
3. Fortify your digital fortress with strong, unique passwords and multi-factor authentication.
4. Update your laptop and smartphone and use an antivirus + firewall. I use Kaspersky and there are a few good choices. Although true anonymity does not exist on the internet, you could use ToR network for an improved anonymity, if you are a whistleblower (as an example).
What else?
That's the drill. I frequent public WiFi without losing my social media account, thanks to these precautions.
Always mind the safety of your physical space - no VPN can shield you from potential stabbing and laptop theft in South East London! That's a different ball game.
Stay secure,
Santosh Pandit
11 January 2024
Go to the Blog Collection