Public Wi-Fi provides convenience and connectivity to users. But one of the biggest concerns it brings is data privacy and security. Thus, careful usage is crucial. If you frequently use public Wi-Fi and want to stay secure, here are five effective tips for you:
Avoid Accessing Sensitive Information
Avoid accessing sensitive information is a really important tip to follow to use public Wi-Fi safely. This simply means whenever you are in any hotel, library, or shop and using public Wi-Fi, do not access or open sensitive files. This is important because accessing sensitive files increases the risk of data loss and other cybersecurity threats.
Use a Virtual Private NetworkÂ
Another important way to use public Wi-Fi securely is to use a Virtual Private Network (VPN). A VPN effectively enables data encryption and prevents your sensitive data from loss and threats like data breaches. By encrypting the data, VPN makes it impossible to read by hackers. Thus, your data remains secure while you are using public Wi-Fi.
Moreover, while choosing a VPN, look for reliable providers. Free VPNs are also available but the paid ones provide better security and features like speed.
Use Strong Password and 2FA
The first effective method to use any public Wi-Fi, including Hilton Wi-Fi, safely involves a strong password and two-factor authentication (2FA). Choose passwords for your mobile phone and all vital apps, especially the banking app, that are difficult to guess.
Ensure your password has a minimum of eight digits and includes an upper and a lower case letter and a special character. Additionally, avoid using your name, birthday, or other passwords that are simple to guess.
Disable Automatic Connectivity
The next effective strategy to avoid threats while using public Wi-Fi is to disable automatic connectivity. Many devices feature automatic Wi-Fi connection. While this is convenient, it can pose serious threats when using public Wi-Fi.
This feature can automatically connect the apps to the Wi-Fi and may result in the loss of sensitive information. Thus, whenever you are using public Wi-Fi like in the Marriot Bonvoy hotel, make sure to turn off the automatic connectivity feature.
Turn Off File Sharing
The fifth simple yet important strategy to safely use public Wi-Fi is to turn off file sharing. As public Wi-Fi is not safe, it is advised to avoid file sharing, as this can increase the risk of various data security threats. Hackers can access important files when sharing them using public Wi-Fi. So, prevention is the key to safety.Â
