Many of the dangers associated with using public WiFi have been well documented. In fact, we even wrote about the dangers of public WiFi in our blog full of tips to keep your device secure.
But as time and technology advance, so too does our understanding of the world around us. As a result, There are now conflicting opinions regarding just how dangerous public WiFi networks can be.
This blog will pursue an answer to one seemingly unanswered question: just how dangerous are public WiFi networks?
What are the (Supposed) Risks?
Public WiFi networks have, for a long time, been believed to offer pathways for criminals to easily gain access to devices and information. The logic behind this thought process is that many different devices share these networks, and since there is no password necessary to access them, it offers an easy access point for cybercriminals.
“Man-in-the-middle” attacks are one of the most common attacks you’ll find on these networks. Norton described these cyberattacks in the following terms: “When a computer makes a connection to the Internet, data is sent from point A (computer) to point B (service/website), and vulnerabilities can allow an attacker to get in between these transmissions and “read” them. So what you thought was private no longer is.”
Another way criminals can damage your system on public WiFi is by using the shared network to distribute malware. If you allow file sharing, as Kaspersky points out, it becomes incredibly easy for a hacker to distribute damaging software.
Have These Security Risks Changed Over Time?
Concerns about public WiFi began at a time when general knowledge on cybersecurity wasn’t as complete as it is now. And now, as free WiFi is becoming the standard for more and more businesses, networks are typically more secure than they once were. Consumer Reports tells us that, “Most sensitive data is now sent through encrypted channels. Many of the risks with public WiFi have faded since many adults began their online lives.” This fact can come as a bit of a surprise to those who have been taught to avoid at public WiFI at all costs.
Digital security has changed in a myriad of ways in the 21st century. Unfortunately, the same can be said for cyberthreats. While public WiFi networks may be more secure now than they were in the past, cybercriminals are also identifying more creative ways to wreak havoc.
Verdict
Is there a concrete answer regarding just how dangerous public WiFi really is for users of the networks?
Maybe not.
But there are a few key takeaways that readers of this blog can use to make their own informed decision. Firstly, the fact that encryption is more common than ever, and much of the most sensitive and important data is more secure from attacks than ever. On the flip side, risks are increasing, and public WiFi still has vulnerabilities that hackers can take advantage of.
Is it worth the risk of using public WiFi? You be the judge.
Categorised in: wifi, workplace issues