Summary Learn how to stay safe at an Internet hotspot.
IntroductionInternet hotspots are everywhere. Unfortunately, most of them aren’t very secure. Learn how to protect yourself when you connect in public.Easy access, little protectionIt can be difficult for hotspot hosts to maintain wireless security. Besides, registration and login requirements tend to defeat the purpose of an "open" Wi-fi network. So, most hotspot hosts employ little or no security measures-which means the trade-off for quick access and easy administration is high exposure to potential threats.To compound the problem, any wireless connection is inherently less secure than an ordinary network hookup. Unlike data traveling over a physical cable, wireless transmissions pass through the air as radio signals. Those signals can be intercepted by anyone with a receiver and some basic, widely available tools. When the hotspot you’re on doesn’t use encryption, someone who intercepts your data can read whatever you’ve sent-whether it’s a private email or a user name and password combination. Because hotspots are in public places, people can simply look over your shoulder to engage in old fashioned eavesdropping or even target your laptop for theft. Criminal means and motivesWhile curiosity seekers put your privacy at risk, the most serious hotspot dangers are cybercriminals with much more sophisticated means and motives. Even when a hotspot uses security measures, technically savvy hackers have the tools, skills, and patience to work around those protections.Cybercriminals have learned to use social engineering methods to con hotspot users into divulging sensitive information. Taking a page out of the phishing and pharming book, they set up a wireless network of their own in the vicinity of a legitimate hotspot. By dressing up their network’s name and home page to look like the actual hotspot, they trick you into joining their network. Once you’re on their fake hotspot, they either ask for "new account" information (like credit card numbers or other sensitive information) or redirect you to other fraudulent or virus-laden Web sites. Security is up to youWith these sorts of dangers lurking-and very few security measures in place-protecting yourself at public hotspots becomes your own responsibility. Here are some things you can do to keep yourself safe:
SummaryPublic Internet hotspots pose security risks. It’s up to you to protect your computer, your data, and your privacy with good tools and cautious computing habits.
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