Free Public Wi-Fi is always a lifesaver when you need to connect to the internet on the spot. The problem is it can be a privacy nightmare if you’re not careful.

Hackers can easily tap into your data and steal your passwords, credit card numbers, or personal information.

Here are the tips to avoid being hacked on public Wi-Fi.

1.Use a VPN.

A VPN (virtual private network) secures your searches and makes it harder for hackers to spy on your online activity.

You can use a free or paid VPN service, or set up your own VPN server at home.

Common examples pf the best VPNS are Express VPN ,Nord VPN, Proton VPN, Surfshark VPN, CyberGhost VPN

Although VPNs are not allowed in some regions due to political reasons, they are important too.

While choosing your VPN consider the following:

• Chose the one that doesn’t collect personal data
• Choose from verified sources like Google Play Store, Microsoft Store or Apple App Store.

2.Avoid sensitive unsecure sites.

If you don’t have a VPN, you should avoid logging into any sites that require your personal or financial information.

Some of these sites such as email banking, or shopping sites may not be secure.

Logging into these sites may be a weak link for hackers to collect your data. It is better to avoid using untrusted login sites until you are off the public Wi-Fi.

3.Turn off file sharing.

File sharing is a feature that allows you to share files and folders with other devices on the same network.

But this also means that anyone on the same public Wi-Fi network can access your files and folders.

You should turn off file sharing when you’re using public Wi-Fi if not set it to password-protected mode.

4.Use HTTPS.

 HTTPS is a protocol that secures the communication between your browser and the website you’re visiting.

You can know if a site uses HTTPS by looking for a padlock icon or a green address bar in your browser.

HTTPS sites are more secure than HTTP sites, which can be easily tampered with by hackers.

 5.Update your software/Apps.

Keeping your software up to date is important for your security, as it fixes any bugs or vulnerabilities that hackers could exploit.

You should update your operating system, browser, antivirus, and any other apps that you use regularly.

To update your apps on the Google Play Store, follow the following steps.

Also Check out: Social Media Hacking is on the rise! ~ 5 Protection Tips.

Thanks for reading, be safe on public Wi-Fi

---

Do you have any tips you can share with us? Please share with us in the comment section