Wi-Fi Hotspot News

Follow these simple steps to keep yourself safe online.

Rule 1 - Never use a Wi-Fi Hotspot that’s unprotected. We’ve discovered numerous networks that claim to be a commercial hotspot but are simply someone’s laptop set up to hijack your login details (bank, email etc). They even look legitimate with fancy login screens.

Rule 2 – Make sure you're not on a rogue network - ask your cafe what their network name is.

Rule 3 – Any website where you have to enter confidential information should be protected using SSL – to check this you should see a little padlock. If it’s not there, don’t login! Always check this before buying online or logging in to your bank.

Rule 4 – Don’t use your email client (outlook, mac mail, entourage etc.) unless you know your mail provider uses a secure connection. Most email providers now use webmail protected by SSL as above.

Rule 5 – Turn your firewall on and sharing off. Modern operating systems all have a firewall built in. These are great at stopping some threats but can’t protect against everything. Turn off file share and other such services in your control panel. Finally, using Virtual Private Network (VPN) software may help further but it’s important to get the right kind.

Rule 6 – Keep updated – always ensure your laptop’s software is up to date. Ideally do this before you visit a Wi-Fi Hotspot.

Did you know? A more detailed version on this can be found in Cafe Culture Magazine this month!