Chances are you’ll need to connect to public wifi while here in Miami for MAWC. But here’s the good news: wireless internet is available nearly everywhere! We have the ability to connect from so many different places; staying connected is easier than ever. Unfortunately, here’s the bad news: all that public internet may not be as secure as you’d think. Being a savvy wireless user can help you protect yourself and your private info (like banking and credit cards). Check out these tips for making the most of wireless internet without risking your personal information.
Staying Smart with Public WiFi
- Use an HTTPS plugin to make your browsers more secure. Check out the Electronic Frontier Foundation to learn more about encrypting your data and for a free plugin.
- Be selective about public networks. Change the settings on your devices so that they do not automatically connect to wireless signals. This will help you ensure you’re connecting to known, safe networks.
- Try a VPN (Virtual Private Network) – these are very affordable, easy to set up and makes your online activity super secure. A VPN routes web browsing to another network.
- Stay smart. When you’re utilizing public wireless networks, staying smart is your best defense of all. Keep your passwords protected and opt out of doing your banking on public wifi – save that for home.
- Keep everything private. Turn off sharing options so that your phone, laptop or tablet knows you’re on a public wifi network.
Do you frequently use public wifi – have you ever had any problems?
