When traveling, it’s important to stay connected. Without Wi-Fi or cell service, you can’t utilize online maps to navigate a new place, keep in touch with loved ones or research restaurants to visit.
Thankfully, it’s not too difficult to find free Wi-Fi, whether that’s at a hotel, cafe or airport. The real problem is ensuring your information is safe and secure on a public network.
According to a 2023 survey by Forbes Advisor, 43% of Americans who regularly use public Wi-Fi said their online security has been compromised while using it. The survey identified cafes, restaurants, and hotels as the top spots where people usually access public Wi-Fi.
“It can be a little dangerous using public Wi-Fi, but I would say it’s doable if you use the right best practices,” Eric Plam, CEO at SIMO, a mobile hotspot company, told USA TODAY.
Here’s how to safely connect to public Wi-Fi.
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What are the risks of using public Wi-Fi?
There are a few, so make sure you’re being “really careful,” Plam said. If you connect to an insecure network or your information lacks proper security measures, you’re vulnerable to hackers.
“There’s a very common threat on Wi-Fi called the man-in-the-middle Wi-Fi attack, and it’s actually a brilliant strategy,” said Plam.
“Imagine you were at a cafe, for example, and you see a Wi-Fi hotspot you want to connect to, and maybe you see multiple ones. One of them might actually be a hacker who sets up an actual, real Wi-Fi hotspot and fakes the name of the cafe. You connect thinking it’s legitimate, and it is, so you get Wi-Fi access, but now the hacker can intercept all your information.”
The first thing to do before connecting to any network is to make sure you’re connecting to the right one. “I would just ask for the network name and see if it’s posted,” said Plam.
If there’s a password to connect, that’s even better. “You can feel a little more confident that it’s more secure and not a rogue access point.”
How can you protect your information against hackers?
Even if you’re using the hotel Wi-Fi, you still want to make sure you’re doing everything you can to protect your information, such as keeping your security systems and operations up to date.
“Use a VPN when possible,” said Plam. “It’s not a very big investment…and adds an extra layer of security from your computer to whatever server you’re accessing.” A VPN, or virtual private network, acts like a “safe tunnel,” encrypting your browsing information.
When connected, try your best to avoid accessing sensitive information like bank accounts or even logging into your email. “Anytime you’re exchanging some sort of password … you want to be cautious of the networks that you’re on,” Plam said.
To do this, use a password manager tool that protects and encrypts your passwords. Long, complex passwords are also more secure – 85% of compromised passwords are less than 12 characters, according to data by Specops Password Policy.
“If that all sounds too complicated, use your own mobile hotspots,” said Plam. Mobile hotspots cost between $30 and $200, depending on the features, such as speed or power source.
What should you do if you connected to an unsafe network?
“The minute you sense something wrong, definitely disconnect,” Plam said. Then immediately change your passwords, “especially when you sense there might be a hack.”
You should also check for any unusual activity on your credit cards.
Is airport Wi-Fi safe?
Yes, as long as you’re positive you’re on the official network and following all the safety precautions Plam mentioned. You may also notice other networks like Boingo available at some airports, which Plam said typically have security methods built in, so you can feel comfortable using them.
“Hackers are always trying to stay a step ahead of security measures, but security experts have done a pretty good job at remaining ahead of hackers,” Plam said.
Can you get hacked charging your phone in a public place?
When traveling, you’ll eventually have to charge your devices in a public space, like a charging station at your airport gate. There’s a concept called juice jacking, where a hacker corrupts a USB port with malware that exports your personal data when you plug your phone in. Although possible, there are no confirmed instances of juice jacking, according to the Federal Communications Commission.
Still, it’s important to be aware of the risk, said Plam. Use your own power bank or the regular AC adapter instead of a USB port.
Kathleen Wong is a travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Hawaii. You can reach her at kwong@usatoday.com.
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