Threats of using public wifi

When connecting to the Internet at a public place, you're unlikely to want to share anything. You can turn off sharing from the system preferences or Control Panel, depending on your OS, or let Windows turn it off for you by choosing the "Public" option the first time you connect to a new, unsecured network. Even if you haven't actively connected to a network, the Wi-Fi hardware in your computer is still transmitting data between any network within range.

There are security measures in place to prevent this minor communication from compromising you, but not all wireless routers are the same, and hackers can be a pretty smart bunch.

If you're just using your computer to work on a Word or Excel document, keep your Wi-Fi off. As a bonus, you'll also experience a much longer battery life. Even individuals who take all the possible public Wi-Fi security precautions are going to run across issues from time to time.

It's just a fact of life in this interconnected age. That's why it's imperative to keep a robust Internet security solution installed and running on your machine. These solutions can constantly run a malware scan on your files, and will always scan new files as they are downloaded. The top consumer security software will also offer business protection solutions, so you can protect yourself while you're out and about, and your servers back at the office, all at the same time.

Throughout any business traveller's life, there's going to come a time when an unsecured, free, public Wi-Fi hotspot is the only connection available, and your work simply has to get done right then. Hotel guests connected to Wi-Fi networks can be easy targets for cybercriminals, who can launch a variety of attacks to target their victims. Related reading: 6 tips for safe and secure remote working.

You and your team could be tricked into using a rogue Wi-Fi network set up by an attacker. That network enticingly called "Free Wi-Fi" may be set up precisely to harvest your business's valuable data. Man-in-the-middle attacks. Connecting to free, public Wi-Fi brings business risks from having your company data intercepted by third parties.

This is because hackers have the ability to position themselves between your employees who are using the Wi-Fi and the connection point. Distribution of malware over unsecured Wi-Fi. Hackers can also use an unsecured Wi-Fi connection to distribute malware.

Having infected software on your computers and devices can be financially crippling to your business. Snooping and sniffing. Another public Wi-Fi risk is hackers using special software kits enabling them to eavesdrop on Wi-Fi signals. The Fraud Watch Network offers other tips on how to protect yourself.

For instance, never let your mobile device automatically connect to the nearest Wi-Fi. The Fraud Watch Network also is reaching out to businesses that provide free Wi-Fi, offering them a tip sheet they can post so customers can learn how to avoid cyber scams.

Most consumers polled say they have never seen a business post any warnings about Wi-Fi safety, although they are more likely to have a favorable view of companies that do.

WayForth Home Transition Management. Free consultation and follow-up plan. No-fee personal loans. You are leaving AARP. Please return to AARP. You'll start receiving the latest news, benefits, events, and programs related to AARP's mission to empower people to choose how they live as they age.

You can also manage your communication preferences by updating your account at anytime.