Be careful if you connect to public WiFi

[Queen uloma]

When I rent hotel room which is the place I noticed I am being offered free WiFi, I just decline it. I have enough data already and it is a huge amount of data.

I clearly understand what you’re trying to avoid. If you already have enough data, using your own connection will be a better option because you don’t need to depend on public WiFi. Public WiFi isn’t secure, and if the WiFi  is not protected, hackers may have access to some of your essential information if you don’t apply caution. That does not mean that every hotel WiFi is unsafe, why I said this, is because many hotels apply security measures. The main thing is to avoid logging in to your bank app or entering any important password, unless you’re using a trusted VPN.

[uchegod-21]

When I rent hotel room which is the place I noticed I am being offered free WiFi, I just decline it. I have enough data already and it is a huge amount of data.

I clearly understand what you’re trying to avoid. If you already have enough data, using your own connection will be a better option because you don’t need to depend on public WiFi. Public WiFi isn’t secure, and if the WiFi  is not protected, hackers may have access to some of your essential information if you don’t apply caution. That does not mean that every hotel WiFi is unsafe, why I said this, is because many hotels apply security measures. The main thing is to avoid logging in to your bank app or entering any important password, unless you’re using a trusted VPN.

Some people will never be able to control the urge to log in to public Wi-Fi. In fact, I think that those who do this should have a separate phone/device for their wallet, which they will make sure they don't, for any reason, connect to public Wi-Fi or anything capable of attacking their device.

These people who risk their wallets are not necessarily doing so because they want to connect to their wallets urgently. Little, irrelevant things like watching videos online, connecting to social media, downloading things online, etc., make them risk their wallets.

For reasons like this, they should always have separate devices that they will protect strictly. They can do anything else with their regular device, but the one with their wallets and bank details should be well protected.

[Franklyn-wood]

The danger is not only the tracking but also that you may be actually connecting to a false WiFi connection that replicates the legitimate one.  In this case you are actually connecting to a stranger WiFi that acts as a middle man collecting all outgoing and incoming data.  There are other risks too.

Anyway.  If I ever have to use public WiFi, I make sure that only happens on my laptop and that I am on Tails running through Tor.  I would definitely not connect any sensitive information containing device to one.

Public wifi can be very dangerous while using as a means of saving money on data, that is common with many people using that opportunity to download files and other things online because it is free neglecting the the possible disadvantages it might be doing on the divice connected to it.
Some of this free wifi sends files capable of corruptingand duplicating other files in the device connected to it. Some of this wifi providers aims at getting at people through this methods by giving it a nice and attractive name that makes people feels like it secure to connect with it.
Using a public wifi is not just dangerous only to mobile phones but also to other internet enabled devices.

[DYOR+BTC]

When I rent hotel room which is the place I noticed I am being offered free WiFi, I just decline it. I have enough data already and it is a huge amount of data.

I clearly understand what you’re trying to avoid. If you already have enough data, using your own connection will be a better option because you don’t need to depend on public WiFi. Public WiFi isn’t secure, and if the WiFi  is not protected, hackers may have access to some of your essential information if you don’t apply caution. That does not mean that every hotel WiFi is unsafe, why I said this, is because many hotels apply security measures. The main thing is to avoid logging in to your bank app or entering any important password, unless you’re using a trusted VPN.

One good thing about network securities i like is its working process,  mine may be vulnerable because it lacks aggressive firewalls to help safeguard informations while yours many be heavily protected from risk. Connecting to public networks at times maybe risky but not to the extent of getting access to once private information if authorisation is not given. Therefore while using network access of others we must be completely careful to avoid given authorisation to someone that can steal our informations.

[Hamza2424]

I have also used several WiFis and no experience of data theft yet, but I do have the believe that there can be way scammers can have access to some information about your device but not what is inside the device.

Clipper malware is normal, but such malware can't be installed on your device even if you are using public WiFi from a restaurant. They can only eavesdrop, check your traffic, and if the data you are sending through the protocol is not encrypted, then the scammers could easily see it.

But if it is encrypted, there will be difficulties for them, although it depends on the encryption level and some other factors. Hackers are smart. Some cafe owners could provide free high speed internet to attract people who only visit for the internet. Such free evergreen offers should ring a bell.

This could be a phishing site, not just for eavesdropping on your device like what you are sharing, but maybe for other harmful purposes.

We must avoid them if we can, but I don't think that if we are using a verified network in a cafe, we have to worry that much. We just have to avoid unnecessary usage.

[fighter2627]

I used to do that too and I was so happy when I knew there was free wi-fi in a public place, I even left our house just to go to the place where there was free wi-fi in public.

Then when I found out from an acquaintance who knows about technical online, he told me that it is dangerous to connect to the internet on a public wi-fi like in a restaurant, mall,
because it is prone to viruses and hacking especially if we have important digital banks on our mobile. so what op is saying is true.

[arwin100]

I used to do that too and I was so happy when I knew there was free wi-fi in a public place, I even left our house just to go to the place where there was free wi-fi in public.

Then when I found out from an acquaintance who knows about technical online, he told me that it is dangerous to connect to the internet on a public wi-fi like in a restaurant, mall,
because it is prone to viruses and hacking especially if we have important digital banks on our mobile. so what op is saying is true.

This is what I do before, especially when I'm in public places and it happens that I don't have internet.

But when I start to deal with crypto stuffs also other activities and learn how those hackers can intercept our data and spread their schemes thru fake wifi hotspot, I Immediately abandon any thoughts connecting with any free public wifi's again.

Although Public wifi is not automatically harmful, its just there are hackers try to abuse this and usually they target those sensitive data of their victims. So with those risk its better not to be so curious connecting on any networks especially if they are not sure if its really safe.

[lovesmayfamilis]

This is what I do before, especially when I'm in public places and it happens that I don't have internet.

It happened to everyone in those days when Internet traffic was expensive. Right now, I do not know what to connect to public networks for. Mobile internet has become very cheap in my country. But yes, if you need to connect, you can always use a VPN and use a browser with HTTPS encryption. It is not necessary to enter passwords or any data that needs to be kept confidential, and the best thing that can be thought up is a complete separation of finances and everything else, such as social networks, videos, and games.

In addition, the automatic connection to networks sometimes works against the wishes of the owner of the phone, so the auto-connection to available networks function should also be disabled.

[UchihaSarada]

It happened to everyone in those days when Internet traffic was expensive. Right now, I do not know what to connect to public networks for. Mobile internet has become very cheap in my country. But yes, if you need to connect, you can always use a VPN and use a browser with HTTPS encryption.

If don't use Tor because it does not always allowed by all websites and can not give good access to some websites, VPN will be the best remaining choice for good privacy. It's a very powerful tool for privacy improvement at home and at public locations with free Internet.

VPN overview: How do VPNs protect your privacy.
Some recommended VPNs
10 Best VPNs in 2026: Security, Features + Speed.
https://www.privacyguides.org/en/vpn/
https://privacytools.io/privacy-vpn

[maydna]

If you're worried about being tracked via Wi-Fi, use your mobile data. I think everyone with a smartphone now has a mobile data plan (with a high data limit).

By the way, your mobile operator will still be monitoring your activity.

Yes, I always use my mobile data even if Wi-Fi available on the place and I did that from a long time ago but I don't know if using Wi-Fi carelessly can cause a problem.

How does your cousin obtain this information? Is he technically knowledgeable (a technical specialist) or was he involved in the processes he describes? Or is this just hearsay?

My cousin know from his friend who works at Internet security company. His friend shows the evidence to my cousin so he told me about this and should be aware from the matter. I don't know my cousin is expert in the security or not but he really understand the matter.

If you have mobile internet on your phone, why use free Wi-Fi? Out of greed?

Some people wants to have free access to the internet and not reducing their mobile data quota. That happens to young generations while they are at cafe or local store. They asking Wi-Fi password and start to connect and I have seen this not just happening to young generations but some adult people also doing this without hesitate.

Perhaps it would be better to have 2 smartphones? Many people have older devices that could be used for online banking, crypto wallets, and other sensitive information. In reality, security isn't the cheapest option, and having "everything valuable" on one device creates additional risks (theft, loss, hacking, data leakage).

That depends on your situation. You can use 2 smartphones for your business activity and personal lives at the same time so at least, you know securing your online banking from the hackers or sniffing.

[cxtreenal]

I used to do that too and I was so happy when I knew there was free wi-fi in a public place, I even left our house just to go to the place where there was free wi-fi in public.

Then when I found out from an acquaintance who knows about technical online, he told me that it is dangerous to connect to the internet on a public wi-fi like in a restaurant, mall,
because it is prone to viruses and hacking especially if we have important digital banks on our mobile. so what op is saying is true.

This used to happen to me too. A few years ago, internet was expensive in my country and using internet on a phone was considered a luxury. I would go to free Wifi zones to play phone games and spend hours on them. At that time, I didn't know anything negative about phone security.

Free Wifi will be harmful to you if you are on this network regularly because a hacker will monitor you in advance to take control of your phone or send you a link to get a tempting offer. If you enter that link, your phone will be out of your control in an instant.

[Achalugo BTC]

I clearly understand what you’re trying to avoid. If you already have enough data, using your own connection will be a better option because you don’t need to depend on public WiFi. Public WiFi isn’t secure, and if the WiFi  is not protected, hackers may have access to some of your essential information if you don’t apply caution. That does not mean that every hotel WiFi is unsafe, why I said this, is because many hotels apply security measures. The main thing is to avoid logging in to your bank app or entering any important password, unless you’re using a trusted VPN.

Well, you are right, its best and more safer for one to use their own data, but if one can't control their urge of using public WiFi, they can only use it for other purposes like social media and maybe playing games too, as they should strictly not use vital apps just as you advised. Although, some public WiFi are protective but for the sake to avoid unnecessary pressure, its better to use one's own data, as its more secure.

[Unknown Op]

I will appreciate you because you added a new thing to the cryptocurrency platform, and many people are not familiar with information technology, and their background could be different. If you are going to a public place and there is free internet, then you can connect your VPN, which will save your information,n and the data will transfer from the rom router to another country, and then it will go to the destination. Data is encrypted in that case, and your security will be high in that case because sometimes a person has no package and he has to use the wifi of a public place. People who are unaware should be aware of these things because there could be huge loss, and any kind of loss will destroy your family status, and you could be on the road in one incident.

[Shussainshah]

Public WiFi is same as you plugged your charger into your phone. They can easily check all your messages which is not encrypted even they have access of some of the applications which can sent encrypted message but they can easily break that's wall with just one clipper malware. When you connect phone with public WiFi the probability is high your phone get hack and they can check all your banking and important data easily.

Always use your own data that's the safest way to not get caught. Data is a little bit costly but better then someone steal your phone data or banking information ya anything important doc etc. A smal act can safe alot of headaches. So always use own Data Internet.

[Cryptmuster]

First of all, if you already have mobile internet, why would you even try to connect to a café's Wi-Fi? Just to save a few megabytes of data? I don't really see the point. Also, these warnings about the dangers of using public Wi-Fi have been around for years. But honestly, I can't think of a single real-life case where someone actually became a victim in that way. I also think cafés have a incentive to protect their reputation, so an incident like that would be very damaging for them. That's why I find it unlikely that something like this would happen at a well-established café that has been operating for a long time.

[Bright0515]

This can happen only be safe to use when securing with a VPN but with no proper security you are giving people access to your privacy. Years back when I heard about this I didn't really think that it was possible to get hacked through this means but when I got to know more about tech I understood why. It is normal to want to connect to a public wifi especially when your network is down but it is advisable to use a backup phone to do that and not your main device, if you don't have one then don't do it.

[goldkingcoiner]

Your security will be your responsibility so make sure that you can be careful if you connect to public WiFi and don't login to anything personal.

PS: I am sorry if this is not the right board. Please tell me and I will move it to the right one.

Using a VPN could be helpful if you must use a public Wi-Fi. It could help encrypt your data and hide your browsing activity. When your IP address is hidden and your activity is obscured, it could be difficult to trace your history. However, avoidance is cheaper, safer, and easier than fixing the damage. It would be better to use your personal connections than to depend on public Wi-Fi where you can become exposed.

Would a VPN really help? I mean if you are using public wifi then that is your first connection, and then you connect to a VPN. So everything goes through the public wifi provider, whether you encrypt your connections or not, they can still see everything if they really wanted to.

I am not 100% certain on how networks work but I would not trust a device that belongs to someone else to direct my internet traffic.

But that is just me....

[SeriouslyGiveaway]

Would a VPN really help? I mean if you are using public wifi then that is your first connection, and then you connect to a VPN. So everything goes through the public wifi provider, whether you encrypt your connections or not, they can still see everything if they really wanted to.

I am not 100% certain on how networks work but I would not trust a device that belongs to someone else to direct my internet traffic.

But that is just me....

VPN can help you but if you are careful, you will self limit doing important things online only at your home. It does not mean at your home, you will not use VPN or Tor.

With Kaspersky, they have this feature for VPN.
Kaspersky VPN Secure Connection with Kill Switch. If automatically disable your connection to Internet if VPN does not work well. It means without VPN, your computer is off from Internet with Kill Switch.

Enter the Kill Switch

The most obvious improvement in the latest version of Kaspersky VPN is its new Kill Switch. When your connection is interrupted, the Kill Switch automatically blocks the device’s access to the Internet until the VPN connection is restored, thus eliminating the risks of using an unprotected connection.

Users of the premium Kaspersky VPN can switch the feature on in the software settings.

[Solodoski]

When I rent hotel room which is the place I noticed I am being offered free WiFi, I just decline it. I have enough data already and it is a huge amount of data.

I clearly understand what you’re trying to avoid. If you already have enough data, using your own connection will be a better option because you don’t need to depend on public WiFi. Public WiFi isn’t secure, and if the WiFi  is not protected, hackers may have access to some of your essential information if you don’t apply caution. That does not mean that every hotel WiFi is unsafe, why I said this, is because many hotels apply security measures. The main thing is to avoid logging in to your bank app or entering any important password, unless you’re using a trusted VPN.

When using personal data is better to abstain from attacks through a public wifi. Maybe the personal internet is slow. It would be the only reason to use another external data.

I have used wifi from public hotels and airplanes. I hope I'm safe. All I'm saying is how to justify what has been done, but I'm kind of scared about what's been done with my device. Is there a way to find out if my device is tampered with through an internet connection?

[Solokan]

I just learned that using free Wi-Fi can have such an impact. Thank you, friend, for the information. Fortunately, I rarely use free Wi-Fi in cafes or other public places because when I leave the house, I always use my phone's data for whatever I need

However, considering the increasingly sophisticated era, we must increase our vigilance. If we don't, we're likely to be at risk of harm So, the point is, we must be vigilant because with the sophistication of this modern era if we're not vigilant, we can potentially harm ourselves I think I'll be more vigilant in everything now