5 tips for safe surfing on public WiFi

Nowadays, it has already become normal to be available anytime and anywhere and therefore also online. The range of public hotspots in cafés, restaurants or at the train station is particularly suitable here. Public WLAN networks are proving to be very useful for countless professionals. A quick and easy login allows almost permanent access to the Internet.
However, every login to a public WLAN also entails a certain risk. These browsers often offer hardly any protective measures to adequately protect your data in public spaces. The majority of public networks are even completely unencrypted and therefore offer unrestricted access for everyone. Nevertheless, we recommend that you use the hotspots. Because with some security measures, you can protect your data even in public spaces with little effort.

Here you can find out which tips are decisive and how you can now surf securely on public networks:

1. Protect your devices

The first step to being able to surf securely on public WiFi is to set up basic protection on your devices. You can obtain this by keeping the operating system on your smartphone, laptop or tablet up to date. By regularly updating apps and system programs, you create automated protection to be able to identify and block serious security gaps in public WiFi in advance. Browser updates are the most important, as they are the first to be “attacked” on public WiFi. If the browser is out of date or not sufficiently protected, this unauthorised person literally invites you. So make sure to keep your mobile device up to date and use the basic protection that comes with it. In principle, you do not offer third parties the opportunity to access your device simply because it has an outdated operating system.
Virus scanners are available for additional security. These are usually pre-installed on Windows operating systems. If you use a device with iOS, you should install an additional virus program, as they usually do not have an automated virus scanner. In this case, you can usually download free apps for your device from the AppStore. Look out for a reputable provider, as well as using a uniform program on all your devices.

2nd Deactivate which Approvals and remote services

Another precaution that you should take before logging in for the first time is to deactivate your data approval. This allows you to access data on other devices, for example from your smartphone to your laptop. In itself, the function of sharing your own data on multiple devices appears to be a very useful tool. It is - but only in private space. If you are using public WiFi, be sure to turn it off. This prevents other users who are on the same network as you from accessing or sharing your data. On most mobile devices, data sharing is generally disabled. However, you should still check this additionally.
Remote services also work in a similar way to data sharing. This function enables systematic remote control of a terminal device, as well as screen sharing. This also allows unauthorised persons to access your data.

3rd Make sure connections are secure — HTTPS and VPN

If you are now on public WiFi, you should ensure a secure and encrypted connection. To do this, we advise you to consider the following factors as a matter of principle.

HTTPS instead of HTTP
To protect your data, avoid websites whose URL starts with HTTP (Hypertext Transfer Protocol). This indicates an unencrypted transfer of data. This gives the provider free access to your data.
You can recognize a secure browser connection by the wording HTTPS (Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure). The “lock icon” to the left of the search bar also indicates encryption. Browser add-ons such as HTTPS-Everywhere are available to completely exclude HTTP connections. You can install these on your mobile device so that you can use a protected connection without exception in the future.

VPN
The safest solution to protect your data from third-party intrusions is to use a VPN. The so-called virtual private network is used for general data encryption, but offers extended protection through a VPN tunnel. This allows you to use the network provider's IP address. Your personal IP address therefore remains anonymous and your data invisible to third parties. In order to use the VPN tunnel, an additional app is required on your device.

For even better protection, you can connect to your private router at home using a VPN connection. This is now used to access all files or data you use and therefore do not exist on public WLAN. This function is particularly important when you provide user data, for example to log into your email account.
However, in order to be able to use the VPN connection, you must also set it up on your device, or have it set up. Many network providers, such as “FRITZ! Box”, offer this service.

4th Turn off your WiFi as soon as you no longer need it

Networks that you have already used are usually saved by your mobile device. In principle, this is used for automatic login as soon as the device is near the public hotspot. If you have permanently activated your WLAN, your mobile device is constantly and actively searching for an already known network.
However, particular care must be taken here as well. The WLAN name of a network can be freely selected by every operator. This enables a copy of a hotspot that is already accessible to the public. Your mobile device recognizes the network name and automatically logs in without verifying that it is actually the network of the original operator. This gives third parties access to your data. In other words, actively log out of the WLAN if this requires access data. The apps you are using should also be properly closed with a logout. To prevent you from constantly searching for a hotspot, you should deactivate your WiFi in system settings and activate your mobile data. The so-called “flight mode” achieves the same.

5. Activate your firewall

If you are on public WiFi, a so-called “small” firewall is ideal for your device. This consists of a hardware and software system that securely connects your IP address to that of the network. A firewall is already pre-installed on the majority of mobile devices and therefore only needs to be activated by you. On your device, you can find them in the system settings under “Firewall and Network Protection.” A firewall generally blocks connections or browser accesses that are not absolutely necessary for using public WLAN. These include, for example, the functions already mentioned, such as automatic network recognition or file sharing.

conclusion

In principle, you should prefer to access sensitive data on protected networks, such as private WiFi. Despite this, there is nothing wrong with the use of public hotspots, as long as you protect your data adequately. With our tips, you can use public WiFi with peace of mind!
In addition, you often benefit from logging in, as many operators “reward” it with a small gift, such as a discount campaign. Feel free to visit one of our hotspots. We guarantee that it will be worthwhile for you. If you would like to find out more about what we offer and how to use our hotspots, the most frequently asked questions are here answered for you.

Now enjoy the possibilities of public WiFi!