CYBERSECURITY experts warn that using public Wi-Fi could make you the ‘perfect target’ for hackers — here’s how to protect yourself.
Experts say that public Wi-Fi is the perfect breeding ground for hackers to target unsuspecting iPhone users.
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Oftentimes, public Wi-Fi lacks adequate security measures and encryption needed to protect a smartphone user’s data.
And in some scenarios, public Wi-Fi has even been set up by cybercriminals themselves as a way to attract potential victims.
Threat actors can use a number of methods to target a smartphone user over public Wi-Fi.
For starters, they can attempt a ‘man-in-the-middle’ (MITM) attack, which is when a malicious third-party intercepts communications between two participants to steal data.
Hackers might also try a ‘packet sniffing’ attack, in which a hacker acquires airborne information accessed via Wi-Fi.
Details that a hacker can obtain over public Wi-Fi include email login, bank details, personal photos and videos, and home address.
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In order to protect yourself while using free, public Wi-Fi, experts advise using a VPN.
What is a VPN?
A virtual private network (VPN) extends a private network across a public network, allowing users to safely share and receive data without the prying eyes of nefarious third parties.
A VPN network works by scrambling your personal information so that without the correct decryption key, it can’t be read by hackers.
Having a VPN app on your device can act as an essential form of security to protect your data from any and all Wi-Fi networks your phone connects to.
How to choose the right VPN
There are many VPN service providers out there, making it hard for smartphone users to pick the right one.
Some important factors to consider when choosing a VPN include strong encryption, ample security features, and good customer support.
Another important aspect to pay attention to is if a VPN is well-known or obscure, as that could determine the type of service they will provide.
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