How bad is it to use open WIFI networks?

When the topic of using open WIFI networks comes up, the majority of the people do not mind it, however, there is that small group of professionals who would never want to use the service, and would rather just rely on their mobile internet.

But how bad is the situation really? There are rumors and facts out in the public about hacking free WIFI systems and monitoring users’ activities, but how common is that present? In today’s article, we will dig a little deeper in the topic to see if there is something to fear about them in our everyday lives.

The dark side of the open WIFI

There are a few common problems that appear when we try to use open WIFI networks. The nature of these WIFI networks allow snooping, and so it can definitely be compromised by crackers. WIFI networks that are in cafés, airports, restaurants are usually unencrypted, and this means that the traffic of it can be seen by anyone who in range of the network. So, others know where you are on the internet, but do not know what you do there precisely.

People can easily snoop around you, and find out some information about your private life and internet browsing. And this is not too comfortable to experience.

“Unsecured”

The moral of the previous story is that when the WIFI network is unsecured, bad things can start to happen. WIFI itself is not posing a threat, and with proper encryption, connecting to it is not dangerous. Passwords, WPA or WPA2 security codes make them safe from people who want to listen in on the conversation between your device and the network.

Ignorance can, however, appear as a real danger when deciding on whether to join an unsecured public WIFI network or not. A lot of people still think that their data is safe when entering the system, and this can lead to a various amount of cyber-attacks against them in their everyday lives.

Always be aware

If you are at an unknown place, and you need to use WIFI, always ask a staff member about the nature of the hotspot. There might be copycat networks with a similar name around, that are merely existing for draining information from users. So, always ask for the proper name of the network, and check if there is a proper log-in process with passwords and encryption methods included. Otherwise do not be surprised if things go south.

Bottom line, keep in mind, that identity theft is the number one motivation for WIFI hacking. Make sure to broadcast as little information about yourself, as possible. Check the privacy settings on your device, and turn off any file sharing systems while you are on a public WIFI network. Also hide your device from nearby ones, that try to identify it.

You might also be interested in:

• How e-mail hacking works?

• The basics of credit card hacking

• How cell phone hacking can affect you?