How to safely use public Wi-Fi without compromising your data

Access to public Wi-Fi networks has become almost essential for those who need to connect to the internet outside their homes or offices. However, these connections can pose a risk to the security and privacy of your data . From information theft to malware infections, the dangers are real if proper measures are not taken. Fortunately, there are simple strategies that allow you to use public Wi-Fi safely when there is no other alternative.

The first step is to make sure you're connecting to the correct network . Cybercriminals can create fake hotspots with names similar to those of a café, airport, or hotel, trying to trick users into connecting. Before entering any personal information, confirm with the establishment's staff which is the official network and avoid connecting to open networks with suspicious or duplicate names.

A VPN (Virtual Private Network) encrypts data traffic between your device and the server you're accessing, preventing third parties from intercepting your information. This is especially important when using public Wi-Fi, as cybercriminals can easily monitor unencrypted connections. Even a free VPN offers a basic level of protection, but paid versions guarantee greater security and privacy.

When connected to public Wi-Fi , it's recommended not to enter passwords, banking details, or sensitive information . This includes online shopping, accessing financial apps, or emailing sensitive information. If absolutely necessary, use a VPN to encrypt your communication and verify that websites begin with "https," which indicates a secure connection.

Keeping your operating system, applications, and antivirus software up to date is key to protecting yourself from known vulnerabilities that hackers can exploit on public networks. Many attacks take advantage of flaws in outdated software, so installing security updates and keeping your firewall enabled significantly reduces the risks.

Before connecting to public Wi-Fi, adjust your device's settings. Disable automatic connection to open networks and file or printer sharing , as these features can expose information to other users on the same network. You can also enable private network options or disable network discovery so your device is not visible to third parties.

Even if you're on a public network, it's always a good idea to use strong, unique passwords for each service. Complementing this with two-factor authentication adds an extra layer of security, ensuring that even if a hacker obtains your password, they can't access your account without the second factor of verification.

Never leave sensitive website sessions open after using public Wi-Fi. Close your browser and disconnect from the network , deleting the saved connection from your device. This prevents your device from automatically reconnecting in the future and minimizes your exposure to risk.

Using public Wi-Fi safely is possible by following simple but effective steps: verifying the network, using a VPN, avoiding sensitive transactions, keeping your devices updated, and protecting your personal information with strong passwords. These measures allow you to enjoy connectivity without compromising your privacy , especially when there's no other way to access the internet.

With the growing popularity of cafes, airports, and public spaces offering free Wi-Fi, digital education and caution are your best allies. Adopting these habits reduces the risk of data theft, malware, and other threats, ensuring that your online experience is safe and secure even on open networks.