58% of Brits Use Free Public Wi-Fi While Traveling – Why Security Experts Are Alarming
New research by eSIM provider Saily has revealed that up to 58% of Brits make use of free public Wi-Fi when they travel. Although it’s a cost-effective and convenient way to stay connected, this practice can expose users to a myriad of cybersecurity threats.
The Hidden Dangers of Public Wi-Fi
Public Wi-Fi networks, such as those found in restaurants, airports, and hotels, are notoriously insecure. Vykintas Maknickas, head of product strategy at Nord Security, highlights several key vulnerabilities associated with these networks.
Man-in-the-Middle Attacks
One prevalent threat is the man-in-the-middle attack. Here, attackers can intercept communications between your device and the Wi-Fi server, allowing them to eavesdrop on your activity, steal sensitive information, or introduce malware.
Session Hijacking
Another significant risk is session hijacking. In this type of attack, hackers can steal session cookies—tiny pieces of data stored on your device—to gain unauthorized access to your online accounts.
Rogue Hotspots and Evil Twin Attacks
Cybercriminals also employ techniques like rogue hotspots and evil twin attacks. By setting up fake Wi-Fi networks that resemble legitimate ones, they can ensnare unsuspecting users and access their data.
Image source: Public domain
Common Techniques Exploited by Cybercriminals
Sniffing
Using specialized software, attackers can sniff data transmitted over a public Wi-Fi network. This makes it easy for them to capture your online activities and extract personal information.
Online Habits of UK Travelers
According to the Saily survey, British travelers typically spend significant amounts of time online. Over 75% of respondents spend more than two hours on the internet each day while traveling.
Popular Online Activities
- Communication: Approximately 56% of respondents use the internet primarily for communication.
- Social Media: Half of the respondents spend time sharing on social media platforms.
- Financial Transactions: A concerning 42% use public Wi-Fi for money management activities, such as making payments and handling transactions.
Image source: Public domain
Expert Recommendations for Staying Safe Online
To minimize the risks associated with public Wi-Fi, experts recommend several best practices:
Use Mobile Internet
“For activities involving sensitive information, like banking, mobile internet is more secure compared to public Wi-Fi,” advises Vykintas Maknickas. Affordable options such as eSIMs and international data packages are available, making mobile internet a feasible alternative.
Tips for Using Public Wi-Fi Safely
- Avoid Sensitive Activities: Refrain from accessing banking sites, making online purchases, or entering sensitive information while connected to public Wi-Fi.
- Forget Networks: After using a public Wi-Fi network, make sure to forget the network on your device to prevent automatic reconnections.
- Keep Software Updated: Ensure that your operating system, browsers, and applications are up-to-date with the latest security patches.
- Use a VPN: A Virtual Private Network (VPN) encrypts your internet connection, making it difficult for attackers to intercept your data.
About Saily
Saily offers a user-friendly and sustainable eSIM service that lets people manage their mobile and internet connections easily from anywhere in the world. With 24/7 customer support, flexible plans, and global coverage, Saily is designed to meet the needs of today’s tech-savvy travelers. Created by the experts behind NordVPN, Saily combines affordability, convenience, and security. For more information, visit saily.com.
For those interested in exploring Saily’s offerings, you can sign up here. Alternatively, check out this NordVPN deal that includes Saily for free.
Conclusion: Prioritizing Cybersecurity When Traveling
As we’ve seen, while free public Wi-Fi can be convenient, it comes with substantial risks. Cybercriminals have multiple ways to exploit these networks. By following expert advice and employing safety precautions, you can better protect yourself and your data while on the go. Prioritizing a secure, reliable internet connection, like opting for mobile data or a VPN, can make a significant difference in your cybersecurity posture.
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With the right knowledge and precautions, travelers in the UK can enjoy their trips without compromising their online safety. By understanding the risks and adopting recommended practices, you can make informed decisions about how to stay connected while safeguarding your personal information.