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If someone unexpectedly sends you something by AirDrop, do not accept it.Surfing online is inherently insecure, especially when connected to a public Wi-Fi network. Avoid using AirDrop and other file-sharing toolsĪpple’s AirDrop function allows for easy fire sharing across devices, and while that’s great, it can also make it easy for someone to send you infected files. Leave a site immediately if it does not use HTTPS, especially when you’re using public Wi-Fi. You can tell that a web page uses HTTPS if there is a padlock symbol next to the URL. HTTPS sites use the SSL/TLS protocol that encrypts all communication and traffic to prevent malicious third parties from stealing your data. Ethernet would be a good option when you are in a hotel room, for example.
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Connect via LANĪttacking a device over an Ethernet connection requires a hacker to gain access to its cable and router, so it’s not as easy as intercepting Wi-Fi traffic. Also check for the padlock symbol when you are using a browser, which indicates HTTPS encryption. While it’s hard to tell if a public Wi-Fi network is secure, at the very least it should require a password to log in. It is best practice to keep them up to date to ensure they have all the latest security patches. Vulnerabilities in outdated software or apps are often exploited by threat actors. Keep your operating system and apps updated Forgetting the network prevents your device from automatically connecting to it when you’re nearby, lowering your risk of unknowingly using an unsecured network. Just because you used a public Wi-Fi service once doesn’t mean you’ll want to connect to it again. Set your device to forget previously used Wi-Fi networks This is one reason it’s always a good idea to log out of a website or app after you’re done using it. Don’t stay permanently signed in to accountsĪn attacker over Wi-Fi could more easily affect your online accounts if you are logged in to them. Best not to log in to them over public Wi-Fi and wait until you are on a network you trust (such as your home Wi-Fi). Possibly the most sensitive accounts you access online are banking and other financial services. Your online traffic gets sent through an encrypted tunnel to prevent interception. A VPN can help you stay private and safe on an unsecured public Wi-Fi connection by encrypting your internet activity and shielding it from snoops.
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