Public Wi-Fi networks offer many positive aspects, as they allow you to save data, mobility and a quick solution for consulting or sending a message. But the list of disadvantages is even longer.

Wi-Fi from a shop or belonging to authorities is not a threat in itself, but the problem lies in the low level of privacy and security it provides to the user.

A network is an access channel to the Internet, where all the data that a person puts on a device travels and reaches an application, a page, etc. All of this is revealed when using these types of connections because it is not known who can access or take control of this information.

This type of Wi-Fi is often used for various types of cyber attacks because they offer criminals many tools.

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Ways to steal information are as follows:

– MitM: The perpetrator is positioned between the user and the network connection to receive, read and modify the information there.

– Download data: It is similar to the previous one, but the difference is that the attacker has the ability to analyze and filter sensitive information.

– Download malware: By bypassing the data, the criminal focuses on spreading the virus, which allows them to control the device in the future and steal the data.

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How to avoid these risks

Using this type of network works in several situations, for example, being on a trip and it is the only possibility of connection to find a location or to send a message to meet someone. So it is convenient to find solutions to use this Wifi without risking the data and security of the device.

The first recommendation is to never access applications or pages that require personal information, such as banks, e-commerce or social networks, in which a session has not been previously opened. By entering a password or credit card number, they will be exposed to a potential attacker. So it’s not good to make digital purchases either.

Another way to take care of yourself is to check the quality of public networks that are encrypted and not open because they are vulnerable. This can be checked by connecting to the Wifi properties and going to the properties, there should be a section that says ‘Security Type’ which should indicate that it is WPA or WPA2which guarantees that it is a secure connection.

Another important check is that the page you want to access starts ‘https’ And preferably have a lock symbol on the left side. If you don’t have it, it’s best to avoid any connection because it won’t be a secure site.

Finally, one way to protect your phone or computer is to keep it updated so that your security system has all the necessary patches to protect against potential attacks and choose VPN Installed because it will allow connecting privately and protect data.

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