Wi-Fi Tips: Is public Wi-Fi safe? Why should we be cautious while using it?

Earlier this year, the Prime Minister Wi-Fi Access Network (PM-WANI) scheme was launched. This scheme aims to keep people connected to the Internet in public places across the country. At present, millions of people are taking advantage of this service. Public Wi-Fi is everywhere, from coffee shops to railway stations and airports, but do you know that connecting to them can put your data at risk?

Many people find public Wi-Fi networks convenient because they are free. Usually, most users keep their devices on auto-connect. However, these networks promote security and privacy risks, especially on open networks. In the last few months, many cases of scams have come to the fore. In which scammers took the help of public Wi-Fi to trap people.

In such a situation, we are sharing some important things with you here, which should always be kept in mind while using the Internet in public places (Public Wi-Fi safety).

What is Public Wi-Fi?

Public Wi-Fi is an open network, which is available in public places for free. Users do not need any verification to access this internet service. In simple words, every network that does not come within the range of your home is public Wi-Fi.

Public Wi-Fi is often a support for those who get stuck in areas with poor mobile connectivity. Nowadays, public Wi-Fi has become quite popular in public places like cafes, and malls.

Is there a risk to safety

Now the question is, is public Wi-Fi safe, then the answer is no. Because anyone can use public Wi-Fi without any verification. Therefore, the risk increases in it. Scammers can use any trick to trap people here and can access your device.

By accessing the device, they can get details like login ID, password, bank account information, and even login credentials on websites including social media platforms.

Identifying an unsecured network

No password is required to connect.

No HTTPS encryption.

Lack of WPA2 or WPA3 encryption.

No ‘terms of use’ or ‘login page’.

Many networks with similar names in one place.

You can use a VPN, but this is also not completely safe.

Avoid clicking on pop-up advertisements.

Do not transact using public Wi-Fi.

Check the provider’s information before using public Wi-Fi.