Stay Safe While Traveling: Avoid Public Wi-Fi Risks This Summer

As summer travel picks up, internet security experts are sounding the alarm on the risks of public Wi-Fi. From cafes to airports, it’s common for travelers to connect to free wireless networks. However, these conveniences can come with hidden dangers.

Internet security expert Eric Plam, president of SIMO, compares connectivity to a basic need, calling it “very much like water and air.” But he warns, “Free and public Wi-Fi access points can be fraught with danger.”

Among the most common threats is the ‘Man in the Middle’ or ‘Evil Twin’ scam, where a fake Wi-Fi network mimics a legitimate one nearby. Once connected, hackers can intercept data, steal passwords, and even access devices.

Plam advises caution when using public Wi-Fi. If a network is too easy to access—without asking for a password or room number—it could be risky. Even when connected, ensure websites begin with “https” and look for a padlock icon in the address bar, though the FBI warns this is not a foolproof guarantee of safety.

He also recommends avoiding sensitive transactions, like logging into bank accounts, while using public Wi-Fi. For an added layer of protection, travelers can purchase a Virtual Private Network (VPN) service, which creates a secure tunnel for internet use.

For those looking for the safest option, Plam suggests using a personal hotspot from your mobile provider, calling it “the most secure and convenient way to go.”

As the summer season kicks off, travelers should stay vigilant and take extra steps to keep their personal information safe.

Credit: CNN Newsource
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