How to Stay Safe and Secure Using Public Wi-Fi

We’ve all been there – your flight touches down in a new country, and the first thing you do is hunt frantically for a good Wi-Fi signal.



In the 15 years since we started this blog, we’ve used free Wi-Fi in airports, restaurants, hotels, pubs, public libraries, and even national parks. So yes, we’ve been stuck searching for free Wi-Fi too. The problem is, today there are more online dangers than ever.






How to Safely Use Public Wi-Fi on Your Travels: Navigating the Digital Seas Abroad



Free public Wi-Fi is a traveler’s best friend for staying connected, but it can also be a playground for digital pirates. Public Wi-Fi can be unsecured and vulnerable, meaning that hackers can use these weaknesses to steal your personal information or install malicious software on your devices without you knowing.



However, fear not! We’ve got you covered with a quick guide on how to safely surf the net abroad.



Throwback to our OG public Wi-Fi abroad in 2003 in Ko Lanta Thailand


Your Digital Lifejacket: Using VPNs



One of the safest ways to surf the open internet is to use a VPN.



Think of a VPN as your personal digital lifejacket. It keeps your online activities encrypted and hidden from prying eyes. It essentially gives you end to end encryption to protect you from any untrustworthy “middle men” that might be listening in on your online connection.



So, before you even think of logging into that café Wi-Fi, turn on a reputable, trustworthy VPN like ExpressVPN .



Regardless of which VPN provider you go with, make sure it has encryption and a no stored logs policy. Unlike in nature, when online, it’s always wise to never leave footprints and to always leave the trash where you found it.



Spotting Safe Harbors: Identifying Secure Wi-Fi Networks



Before you connect, let’s talk safety. Not all Wi-Fi networks are created equal. At a bare minimum, look for networks that require a password, which is at least a sign someone has thought of security. Even an open network that belongs to a well known business makes you go through a few hoops to finally get online. That’s usually not a bad thing.







Beware of Digital Doppelgängers: Evil Twin Hotspots



Evil twin Wi-Fi hotspots often mimic legitimate Wi-Fi hotspots . These are WiFi traps with real sounding names set by cybercriminals hoping to snag you in and steal your data. Once you log into them, everything you do online, from checking your bank accounts and email to posting pictures on social media goes through their servers and allows them to do whatever they want with that information they’ve now stolen. (Also don’t forget that VPN which can still help in these situations.)



Pro tip: Always ask staff for the official network name and password wherever you happen to be. This can keep you from accidentally connecting to a copycat network. Pay special attention to extra characters that are tagged onto the legit sounding Wi-Fi network as those can often be red flags that things aren’t as they should be.



Surfing Safely: Best Practices on Public Wi-Fi



Public Wi-Fi isn’t the place for online shopping or checking your bank account. Save those for a secure connection. And remember, just like you wouldn’t leave your drink unattended in a bar, don’t let your devices auto-connect to networks. As an extra precaution, consider turning off your Bluetooth if you’re not using it. Not only can it keep you more secure, you’ll also save some precious battery life.



Confused about voltage, adaptors and converters? Find out how to keep from frying your electronics overseas.






Your Digital Bodyguard: Antivirus and Anti-Malware



Your devices need bodyguards, and that’s where antivirus and anti-malware apps and programs come in.



They’re your first line of defense against unwanted intruders on public networks. Keep them updated, just like you do your travel itinerary.



Guarding Your Treasures: Securing Personal Data



Enable your device’s firewall – consider it the moat around your digital castle. Also, make sure to stick to secure websites that use HTTPS, especially when entering personal information. Think of it like choosing a well-lit path back to your hostel at night. It keeps you more secure from any prying eyes.



Think Wi-Fi in a national park is weird? Nokia plans to launch 4G internet on the moon.






Keeping Your Ship in Shape: Software and App Updates



Outdated software and operating systems are like a leaky boat – eventually, you’ll run into trouble. Regular updates patch up these leaks and keep you afloat in the digital sea. Make sure you apply any software updates your device offers. They’re there to help protect you from the latest vulnerabilities but they can’t do their job if they never get installed.



Do you feel the need – the need for speed? Learn how to get high-speed wi-fi when traveling .



Stay Safe and Keep Exploring



With these safety tips, you’re now ready to navigate the digital waves safely. Remember, staying connected is important, but protecting your digital self is paramount. Keep these practices in mind, and you’ll be as savvy online as you are in your travels.



Stay safe, and enjoy your travels! – Micki The post How to Stay Safe and Secure Using Public Wi-Fi first appeared on The Barefoot Nomad .