Using public Wi-Fi at cafes? Your data may be at risk—learn key safety tips before you log in.

Wi-Fi at Public Places: At cafes or co-working spaces, you are often surrounded by many strangers. In such situations, try to sit in a spot where your screen is not easily visible to others.

In today's digital age, it is no longer necessary to be confined to just your home or office. Many people now complete their work from cafes, co-working spaces, hotel lobbies, or airport lounges. High-speed internet and the remote work culture have made this possible. However, working from public places comes with significant security and privacy risks that, if ignored, can prove costly.

If you work in a remote or hybrid mode, the first step is to understand your company's policies. Many organizations issue specific guidelines regarding working in public spaces, and in some instances, they may even prohibit working with sensitive data in such locations. Therefore, before you begin working from anywhere, ensure you know exactly what your company permits and what it does not.

Cafes and co-working spaces are often filled with strangers. Given this, try to choose a seat where your screen is not easily visible to those around you. If possible, sit near a wall to prevent anyone from viewing your screen from behind.

Additionally, using a screen privacy filter is an excellent measure, as it makes it difficult for others to view your screen from side angles. Free Wi-Fi often seems tempting, but it can also pose a significant threat. On such networks—especially those that do not require a password—there is a significant risk of your data being stolen or hacked.

Often, fake Wi-Fi networks are created that mimic legitimate ones, leading people to connect to them by mistake. This can result in your personal information falling into the wrong hands.

Using a mobile hotspot is generally considered safer than relying on public Wi-Fi, as it operates on your phone's cellular network. Furthermore, using a VPN (Virtual Private Network) encrypts your data, making it difficult for hackers to read.

Leaving a laptop or phone unattended in a public place can increase the risk of theft. If you are moving around, be sure to take your device with you. Additionally, avoid conducting important or confidential conversations in public areas, as it is difficult to determine who might be listening nearby.