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8 things you should and shouldn't do when using public Wi-Fi while traveling abroad

When traveling, sometimes you cannot avoid using unsecured networks. Even paid, password-protected networks run by established businesses can be dangerous. Here are some do's and don'ts if you want to use public WiFi networks safely while in another country.

1. DO: Check the security type of public WiFi

Most public WiFi locations today should use encryption by default, ensuring your device is generally secure for general web browsing. However, checking the security protocol of public WiFi on any device you connect to is a more reliable indicator of security.

If the WiFi security type is listed as “WEP” or “WPA”, then the network is definitely not secure. Any type including “WPA-2” or the latest “WPA-3” boasts strong encryption and is secure for most practical purposes. However, with WPA-2, there are some caveats.

For example, the above network connection on a Windows laptop uses WPA-2 Personal, which is strong but not completely secure. This network has known vulnerabilities KRACK (Key Reinstallation Attack) and brute force attacks, especially if the weaker TKIP protocol is used instead of AES. The above WiFi network can be used for normal web browsing, but not for financial transactions.

2. DON'T: Connect to suspicious networks

Hackers often set up networks that resemble legitimate networks provided by companies. These fake networks may act like normal networks but may steal your information. To ensure safety, ask hotel staff to write down your business's full network name (SSID) before connecting to a public hotspot and make sure it matches exactly.

Hidden, unknown suspicious WiFi networks. Avoid connecting to these networks.
Hidden, unknown suspicious WiFi networks. Avoid connecting to these networks.

You may be tempted to connect to hidden WiFi networks that sometimes don't require a password, especially when quick access is needed – resist that urge!

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3. DO: Turn on the firewall

On desktop devices, firewalls act as a barrier to potentially destructive elements and prevent others from accessing your computer without permission. Even with a weak WiFi network, turning on the firewall will alert you to outside intruders.

Turn on the firewall before connecting to any public network. If you don't like the Windows Defender firewall, there are several other options that give you additional features.

Turn on Microsoft Defender firewall with security features
Turn on Microsoft Defender firewall with security features

4. DON'T: Use slow WiFi networks

Slow network speeds are still a reality even today! You can always use Speedtest and other sites to measure WiFi speed at your location. Anything below 8~10 Mbps is suspicious.

Use Speedtest to determine network connection speed.
Use Speedtest to determine network connection speed.

The slow speed itself is not a problem. But a slow WiFi network is almost synonymous with outdated hardware or weak encryption. Additionally, lengthy security updates create opportunities for hackers to use packet sniffing and impersonation tools (you may have seen many SSIDs with suffixes like “2” or “3”). If you find yourself in a location with poor WiFi, it's better to use a mobile data network.

5. DO: Use strong passwords and diversify them

Using the same password for most online accounts may be convenient, but it also makes you more vulnerable to attack. Stalkers on public networks can learn your passwords and access some of your accounts, so mix up multiple passwords before you go to another country. Passwords are most secure when they are long and contain many characters.

LastPass, a website that generates strong passwords based on user input.
LastPass, a website that generates strong passwords based on user input.

For those of us struggling to create strong passwords, online password generators can be a lifesaver. Sites like Bitwarden and KeePass offer high encryption strength and securely store all your passwords.

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6. DON'T: Use unencrypted websites

When it comes to how to use public WiFi networks safely, this is a glaring omission, as many users continue to browse unsafe websites without worry. This may be fine when you're at home, but the same habits can be harmful in a shady foreign hotspot.

To be clear, sites with “HTTPS” at the beginning of the URL encrypt your information and are therefore less attractive to hackers. If there's no “S” at the end, the site isn't safe – so avoid using it as much as possible. Only use encrypted HTTPS sites.

The Chrome browser will issue a warning when accessing an insecure HTTP website.
The Chrome browser will issue a warning when accessing an insecure HTTP website.

7. DO: Use a virtual private network (VPN)

A VPN gives you the security benefits of a private network while you're connected to a public network. They hide your IP address and DNS data with encryption, making it harder for scammers to access your information. You can refer to the best VPN products for your needs.

One of the reasons why you can't help but use an anonymous VPN is because a good VPN that doesn't leak DNS is a surefire way to protect confidential user input data like passwords, PIN codes, card information credit and personal information. Just make sure to avoid “free VPNs”, they create more problems than not having a VPN in the first place.

8. DON'T: Leave the device connected when not in use

Just because you're not using your device doesn't mean it's safe from hackers. Immediately disconnect devices from public WiFi networks when they are not in use to prevent others from accessing your connection and data. You should also disconnect all your devices even if you temporarily go offline. For example, if you're at the airport and take a break from surfing the web to grab a coffee, disconnect your phone from the WiFi.

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Above are the best ways to use public WiFi networks safely. Another additional tip for dealing with insecure WiFi networks is to keep your device software up to date. Many websites today also give you the option to enable two-step authentication, which you should use.

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