The phrase, “it's better to be safe than sorry”, definitely applies when it comes to using public computers and public Wi-Fi connections. You risk a lot if you don’t take precautions to protect yourself in the public domain.
There’s no doubt that it’s convenient to access public computers in settings such as libraries or schools, or public Wi-Fi networks in hotels and coffee shops, but is the tradeoff really worth it? These types of public connections could give cyber thieves access to your personal and financial information, leaving you a potential victim of fraud.
Fortunately, there are several ways to protect yourself in situations where you need to use a public Wi-Fi network or computer:
- When you're on a public device or network, don’t access websites that require you to divulge personal or sensitive information, such as those maintained by your bank, credit card provider, or insurance company.
- Don’t use a public computer or Wi-Fi network to shop online. At some point you’re going to have to divulge financial information – such as a credit card number – in order to make a purchase. This is yet another opportunity for thieves to steal your information.
- If you use a public computer, log out of your accounts and close all browser tabs, as well as delete your browsing history and cookies before signing off.
- Stick exclusively to secure websites when in public. Look for web addresses beginning with “https://” (the “s” stands for secure). Secure websites transmit data over an encrypted connection to keep your information safe. Keep in mind that information you enter on webpages with an “http://” address is not secure.
- If you need to step away from a public computer for a few minutes, log out first. Don’t give thieves an open invitation to steal your information online.
- Turn off automatic connectivity if using a personal device, such as a smart phone, tablet, or laptop, in a public setting. Although this feature allows you to conveniently and seamlessly connect from one network to the next, it also can allow your devices to connect to a network you usually wouldn’t use.
- Tap into a virtual private network (VPN) to ensure your privacy is protected when using public Wi-Fi. VPN services encrypt all of the data that you send and receive while using a public connection, protecting your information from others who are using the same Wi-Fi setup.
- Keep anti-virus software up-to-date with the latest versions on all of your electronic devices. But remember to never install updates while on public Wi-Fi. There have been instances where cyber crooks send out fake updates to public Wi-Fi users, which in turn allows them to access and install malicious software on the device.
- Be on the lookout for shoulder surfers – those who literally look over your shoulder to intercept your username and password, account numbers, or other sensitive information.
- If you really need to access your bank account while away from home, do so using your mobile phone’s data network, instead of public Wi-Fi. Another secure approach is to use your bank’s mobile app on your phone.
- Don’t use the same password for various websites or services. You should have separate, unique passwords for your email, online banking, and credit card accounts. If you have difficulty keeping track of different passwords, there are password managers available online that can help.
By doing your best to avoid public computers and Wi-Fi connections, and by staying vigilant and careful in circumstances where you must use them, you can help keep your sensitive information from being compromised. For more useful tips about safeguarding your personal and financial information, visit our Security Center.