Using Public Wi-Fi Networks, A Potential Security Risk.

The tasks performed by people on the Internet, whether for work, shopping, staying updated on daily events, and more, are increasing. This may render the data packages subscribed to insufficient, prompting Internet users to search for various ways to access the Internet without incurring additional costs to accomplish their tasks. Hence, they often explore the availability of public Wi-Fi networks.

At times, users have no option but to use a public Wi-Fi network in their current location. For instance, imagine needing to urgently respond to an email while on a break at an airport or in a café. In such scenarios, public Wi-Fi networks become the only available choice.

However, public Wi-Fi networks can pose a significant risk to their users, resulting in thousands of victims and numerous hacking incidents. Such events commonly occur in locations with shared free communication networks accessible to the general public. Most open internet access networks, whether in cafes or public spaces, are always exposed to the risk of complete penetration, including the hacking of mobile phones or computers, and this can be done quite easily.

1- Endpoint Attacks:

   The Wi-Fi network provider, as well as users utilizing Wi-Fi connections, are referred to as Endpoints. These are the focal points for hackers and attackers when breaching wireless networks, as any intruder can gain access to your device through the Wi-Fi connection itself.

   Although your endpoint devices, such as tablets or smartphones, may be secure, hackers and pirates can access any information on the network if any other endpoints are compromised, leaving you unaware that your device has been infiltrated.

2- Packet Sniffers Attacks:

   These attacks, known as packet analyzers, are unfamiliar programs used to monitor network traffic and the information passing through it. They are also employed to test the strength of network connections. However, these programs also serve as excellent penetration points for pirates to steal user information, such as usernames and passwords, through a method known as Side Jacking.

3- Rogue WiFi Attacks:

   This involves setting up a malicious wireless network by pirates with the sole intention of stealing information from users connecting to these networks. Rogue Wi-Fi networks typically have names that make them appear attractive and enticing to users, tempting them to connect immediately.

4- Evil Twin Attacks:

   This method is considered one of the most well-known risks threatening Wi-Fi networks, resembling Rogue WiFi to some extent. However, instead of having attractively named networks, the attacker sets up a fake network to look exactly like a trusted network you might have used in the past.

   When you connect through this network, you are, in fact, connecting to a fake network, giving hackers full access to information transmitted or received on the network, such as credit card details, banking information, application passwords, and all other sensitive information.

5- Man-in-the-Middle Attack (MitM):

   This attack is one of the most common public Wi-Fi network attacks, known as a MitM attack. It's a type of intrusion where hackers infiltrate between network participants without the knowledge of either party. Shared data exchanged between two or more users who believe they are communicating with each other is manipulated by a third party who is aware of it all.

   Public Wi-Fi networks lacking mutual authentication protocols are the most vulnerable to MitM attacks.

   Using a Virtual Private Network (VPN):

   Therefore, it is necessary to use a reliable VPN like CyberGhost VPN. There are many risks beyond those mentioned, so it's better not to use extremely sensitive information without trusting a company that provides comprehensive security solutions.

   Using SSL Connections:

   You can add an encryption layer to your connection. Enable the "Always Use HTTPS" option on websites you frequently visit or those that require you to enter some type of credentials. Remember that hackers are well aware of the possibility of people reusing the same passwords for different purposes. Your username and password for a forum, for example, might be the same as your banking or home network account, and sending these credential data in an unencrypted way can open them to intelligent infiltration. Most websites that require accounts or credentials have an HTTPS option in their settings.

Disabling Wi-Fi When Not Needed:

Even if you don't establish an active connection to any networks, the Wi-Fi on your computer continues to send data to any network within its range. There are security measures that prevent harm from this simple connection, but not all wireless routers are identical and may carry this feature. Intruders can be quite clever.

So, if you're using your computer only for working on a (Word) or (Excel) file, turn off the Wi-Fi network. There is another advantage as well: saving battery power. By disabling Wi-Fi when not needed, you'll be able to use the battery for a longer period.