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Wi-Fi Security Tips

Free Wi-Fi public Wi-Fi networks are now available at book stores like Barnes and Noble and Borders, coffee shops like Starbucks (with a rewards card), and airports using Google’s Free WiFi or JiWire’s Ads for Access.

Top 10 Security Tips for Public Hotspots

  1. Make sure you’re connected to a legitimate access point.
  2. Encrypt files before transferring or emailing them.
  3. Use a virtual private network (VPN).
  4. Use a personal firewall.
  5. Use anti-virus software.
  6. Update your operating system regularly.
  7. Be aware of people around you.
  8. Use Web-based email that employs secure http (https).
  9. Turn off file sharing.
  10. Password-protect your computer and important files.

Wi-Fi at public hotspots can be reasonably safe and secure, but free public Wi-Fi hotspots are by nature “open” and unencrypted. All open networks are vulnerable to security breaches. Airports attract hackers. It’s a fact. It’s up to you to protect the data on your PC.

WiFi security tips are available from the FBI, Microsoft, Apple, PC World and USA Today.

The WiFi Alliance offers these security tips to protect yourself when using public hotspots:

  • Configure your device to not automatically connect to an open network without your approval.
  • Disable sharing. Your Wi-Fi enabled devices may automatically open themselves to sharing / connecting with other devices. File and printer sharing may be common in business and home networks, but you should avoid this in public networks.
  • Make sure that you are connecting to a legitimate hotspot – password protected hotspots have more protection than those that do not.
  • Use a virtual private network or VPN, which establishes a private connection across the public network. This may be supplied by your employer, or you can purchase one.
  • Install anti-virus software.
  • Use a personal firewall. When connecting to a public hot spot, you are joining a network with other unknown computers, which can increases your exposure to unwanted risks To protect yourself , run a personal firewall program, which are easy to install and in some cases free.
  • Surfing the web and sending e-mail is fine, but doing your banking for example in a public hotspot is not advised.

Insist on a Wi-Fi CERTIFIED Wi-Fi hotspot, says the WiFi Alliance. That’s because Wi-Fi CERTIFIED products require Wi-Fi Protected Access, specifically WPA2 – the most up to date security standard. Check your Wi-Fi devices to see if they are certified.

Wi-Fi Protected Setup simplifies Wi-Fi configuration and security settings to automatically configure new wireless networks, add new devices and enable security.

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Posted by Sam Churchill on Wednesday, November 11th, 2009 at 4:50 am.

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