Using Public Wi-Fi: When Convenience Quickly Becomes a Danger to Personal Data

DNVN - Using free public Wi-Fi at coffee shops, airports or shopping malls can bring quick convenience. However, cybersecurity experts warn that users are putting their personal data and online accounts at risk of being stolen, malware infiltrated or remotely manipulated when accessing unsecured networks.

Public Wi-Fi networks with free access and ease of use are becoming a popular choice in many public places. However, that “ease of use” feature also poses many security risks. According to a report from VOV, when users connect to open or unknown Wi-Fi hotspots, they can become targets for personal information theft such as passwords, bank accounts or be infected with malware without knowing it.

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One of the points worth noting is that users often cannot authenticate the nature of the Wi-Fi network they connect to: bad guys can create fake networks with similar names and take advantage of users' subjectivity to commit fraud. On this network, unencrypted data sent and received can be captured mid-transmission, leading to quick collection by attackers.

The impact of connecting to public Wi-Fi networks goes beyond information disclosure. Many people who use public networks to access banking services or shop online have lost money. One case was recorded where a user made a payment at a coffee shop, then discovered that the account had been deducted without a clear reason. In the analysis, this activity was attributed to the unsecured Wi-Fi connection, which led to the capture of login information or redirection to fake sites.

Given this situation, experts recommend that users limit their connection to public Wi-Fi networks when making important transactions such as transferring money or logging into bank accounts. A safer option is to use mobile networks or use a virtual private network (VPN) to encrypt the connection.

In addition, clearly displaying the option to “do not allow automatic connection” to new Wi-Fi networks, not accessing sensitive information when using open Wi-Fi networks, and not downloading or installing applications while connected to public networks are also practical measures to help protect individuals.

Being aware of the risks and practicing safe behaviors can help users reap the benefits of public Wi-Fi without getting hurt. While encryption and security technology continues to evolve, user awareness remains the first and most effective line of defense against cyberattacks via public Wi-Fi.

Nguyen Bach

Source: https://doanhnghiepvn.vn/cong-nghe/su-dung-wi-fi-cong-cong-khi-tien-ich-nhanh-chong-tro-thanh-hiem-hoa-cho-du-lieu-ca-nhan/20251104114603832