5 golden rules for staying safe when using public Wi-Fi

Although public Wi-Fi is often considered a cybersecurity “trap,” it’s actually not as serious as many people fear. Just because you’re surfing the internet at a familiar coffee shop doesn’t mean you’re at risk of having your entire bank account stolen. However, that doesn’t mean you’re completely safe, there are still hidden risks you need to be aware of.

A survey by the German platform Statista found that 4 out of 10 people who have used public Wi-Fi said they have had their data breached. These incidents often occur in cafes, airport lounges or crowded public areas where users easily choose the network with the strongest signal without considering its authenticity.

Hackers only need a portable Wi-Fi hotspot to create a fake network with a similar name to the real one. When someone connects, they can completely block internet access, insert fake login pages to steal account information, passwords or authentication codes.

In fact, most attacks are not caused by poor Wi-Fi technology, but by users being careless, acting hastily, or being easily distracted. In a public connection, even a small mistake can open the door to big risks.

Therefore, to stay safe when connecting to public Wi-Fi networks, users should pay attention to the following important principles.

1. Always verify the network before connecting

When possible, connect using an official QR code provided by the cafe, hotel, or airport. If not, don't be afraid to ask for the exact network name. Attackers often set up fake networks with names that closely resemble the real ones to fool people who have hastily chosen the strongest network. Take a few seconds to check to avoid falling into the trap.

Before connecting, you should also turn off automatic connection and file sharing over the network, these are two doors that hackers often use to penetrate the device.

2. Use a virtual private network

A virtual private network (VPN) encrypts all the data you send and receive, creating a “secure tunnel” between your device and the internet. Even if you accidentally connect to a fake network, the data that is intercepted will be just gibberish. That’s why more and more people who travel, work remotely, or handle sensitive documents choose to use VPNs.

Be careful, however, as not all VPNs are trustworthy. Some free services may log your activity, sell your data, or leak information. If possible, choose a reputable provider and enable the HTTPS-only feature, which will help you avoid websites that don't encrypt your connection.

3. Be careful with “strange” login portals

Some networks ask you to enter a simple access code (e.g., hotel room number, coffee receipt). But if you encounter a login page that asks for social media account information, email, or even credit card information just to access Wi-Fi, think again. It could be a cleverly disguised trap.

4. Avoid handling sensitive data on public Wi-Fi networks

Unless absolutely necessary, wait until you have a secure connection at home or use a private cellular network to do banking, online shopping, or access important accounts.

If necessary, double-check the website address and make sure the browser displays a lock icon, a sign that the site uses secure encryption.

5. Always update new software

Tech companies regularly release security patches to fix newly discovered vulnerabilities. But if you don’t update, those protections are useless. Update your devices before you travel, not when you’re sitting in the airport lounge.

In short, public Wi-Fi is not dangerous if you use it carefully. The real risk comes from careless habits such as rushing to connect, not verifying the network, ignoring warnings.

Hackers today not only attack technically but also exploit human psychology with sophisticated social tricks. The next time you are about to click on a free Wi-Fi network, stop for a moment. Just a moment of vigilance can protect your entire digital world from intrusion./.