Security Risks of Using Public Wi-Fi
We have all accessed free Wi-Fi in public places. One of the most common places is the local coffee shop which provides free Wi-Fi when you purchase a coffee, there are always people using their laptops and mobile devices to access the free Wi-Fi. This is not uncommon, I’m sure we have all used these facilities at some point. What we don’t think about is that we may be at risk of our personal banking information being hacked, recorded and used to commit fraudulent purchases with our details.
The powers that be have recently confirmed our suspicions that hackers are able to access our information, inject and manipulate data at their discretion, unknown to users. They have identified that there is a key flaw in Wi-Fi encryption protocol that allows hackers to intercept passwords and other information accessed via wireless devices.
The Facts
- A hacker would need to be within Wi-Fi range of the network you are connected to, to facilitate the “hack”.
- Microsoft has already released a security patch
- Apple will be rolling out a software update in a few weeks
- Google Mobile will be rolling out a software update in a few weeks
- Samsung Mobile is still investigating and will roll out patches where needed.
How to Stay Safe
- Make sure you have the latest security updates installed on your device.
- Avoid accessing sensitive information while connected to public Wi-Fi
- Avoid free Wi-Fi and use your 4G instead
While Advivo is not a technology firm nor technology experts, we strongly urge that you to review your mobile Wi-Fi practices to stay safe and seek assistance if you’re not sure. Our team is always looking for ways to ensure that our clients are protected as Cyber Security is becoming more and more prevalent for businesses and individuals alike.
If you don’t know where to start, please contact us to help point you in the right direction.
