They have opened up a world of possibilities for us. We can find them everywhere. WiFi networks have become part of our lives.
Shops, airports, libraries, shopping centers, trains, bars… the universal connectivity that they facilitate is everywhere. Therefore, the very first question we ask when we come to a hotel or a restaurant is: Is there WiFi?
But, do we know how to use them properly? Are we aware that they could cause some risks if we don’t take proper precautions? Because despite helping our lives, at times they are unsafe. It is possible that we could easily expose ourselves to the cybercriminals who surf the digital universe. However, don’t panic: there are more advantages than disadvantages when we use them in a responsible manner.
Specifically, a WiFi network is the channel to access Internet through which data circulate between connected devices and the network. At home, the user knows the configuration as he/she witnesses the process of installation, he/she knows the service operator and at times, he/she can customize the configuration. You can reduce the risks of vulnerabilities in your equipment and the exposure of your private information by controlling the accessibility to your own network.
That’s why it is indispensable to know the possible ways that a cybercriminal can usewhen he/she accesses a WiFi network. The goal is to carefully surf these networks:
How can we protect ourselves?
According to Juan Corro, Academic Director of the Engineering Area of the Centro Universitario U-Tad, where it teaches the Master Indra in Cybersecurity: “The lack of good habits and digital health of citizens make them more susceptible to being attacked”.
Therefore, as in all aspects of our lives, the most important point is common sense, i.e., if there is something strange, don’t connect. Before using any public WiFi, we must verify with the people responsible of the place that the network we try to connect to is authentic.
For a cybercriminal, it is not complicated to create a false network, name it with a similar name of one of the most demanded networks and trick whoever wants access to it. So it is not strange that we can connect to that network without realizing it and then they are able to steal our personal information. Likewise, these networks don’t encrypt the information sent to the Internet from our devices, and as a consequence the vulnerability is higher.
These are some recommendations that help us use public WiFi networks more responsibly:
An easy way to protect our digital life when we use a WiFi network is to take into account these recommendations. So, safely connect and carefully enjoy the infinite possibilities offered by technology.
Banco Santander helps people prosper in their digital life, as part of its commitment to make responsible banking.