Using free public Wi-Fi at train stations, airports, or cafes is a convenient way to save mobile data, but it often comes with hidden risks. What seems like a helpful service can quickly become a gateway for cybercriminals to access your private data. Experts warn that through these unsecured networks, attackers can intercept banking credentials, one-time passwords, and personal information.The risks associated with free Wi-Fi are critical.
Cybercriminals often monitor user traffic on public networks to gather sensitive information. Security professionals strongly advise against performing banking transactions, UPI payments, or online shopping while connected to these networks. When in public spaces, relying on your own mobile data plan is significantly safer than connecting to an open Wi-Fi signal.If you must use public Wi-Fi, using a VPN is essential.
A Virtual Private Network (VPN) encrypts your internet traffic, making it much harder for attackers to intercept your data. Before entering any personal information, always ensure that the website uses "HTTPS" encryption. If a browser labels a site as "Not Secure," you should avoid sharing any sensitive details. Furthermore, disabling automatic connection and file-sharing settings on your smartphone reduces the likelihood of unauthorized access
