Security on Public Wi-Fi

Attackers can compromise public Wi-Fi networks and can listen in on conversations or compromise devices.

The following are some risks to avoid and best practices.

Risks to Avoid

Evil Twin or Fake Wi-Fi Hotspots

Attackers can create forged Wi-Fi hotspots with names similar to legitimate networks to lure you into connecting. Once connected, they act as a middleman between your computer and the internet, allowing them to monitor your activity, steal personal information, or spread viruses to your device.

What to do

Browse Safely

Avoid connecting to public Wi-Fi whenever possible, especially when using University devices or accessing University systems. If you must use public Wi-Fi, refrain from performing sensitive transactions or accessing confidential information. Always ensure that you are using secure “HTTPS” websites. Learn how to check for secure websites with HTTPS by reading the guide on URL security.