Most of us have at least one gadget that connects to the internet, whether it’s a smartphone, tablet or personal computer. When we’re at home, they connect to our own wi-fi network, but when we’re out and about, unless they have a 3G/4G mobile connection, they can’t access the internet. Unless, that is, you hook up to one of the hundreds of free Wi-Fi hotspots out there. But are they safe?
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How to stay safe using free Wi-Fi:
Free wi-fi connections are open to hackers who are lurking on the network looking to steal your username and password for various accounts from social networks. To ensure you stay safe when using free Wi-Fi:
1. Make sure you never check your bank account or make financial transactions.
2. If you want to check email accounts or social networks, make sure you go through the website itself and check that it’s secure and encrypts your data – it will have HTTPS in the web address once you’ve signed in.
3. Do not use an app – including your email client on your smartphone or tablet. These don’t encrypt the data as well, so could be viewable by hackers lurking on the network.
4. Make sure you log yourself out of these websites as soon as you’re finished. Don’t stay logged in.
5. Don’t use the same password for several accounts as, if a hacker does get your personal details, they could then access several of your accounts.
6. One final precaution is to change your password for these sites regularly to help you stay protected.
Here’s how to hook up to the Wi-Fi on:
Smartphones and tablets
Open the Settings menu and select Wi-Fi or Wireless Networks. From the networks listed, select the one you want to connect to. If the network is secured it may request a password – if you know this, enter it into the box and press Join. Once there is a tick next to the wireless network name, you’re connected and ready to go.
Windows PC
Click the Wireless Settings menu from the bottom of the taskbar – the icon looks like a series of vertical lines increasing in height – then select the network you want to connect to. Enter the password and press Connect.
Mac
Select the Wi-Fi menu from the top right-hand corner of the screen and select the wireless network you want to join. You will be prompted to enter the password for the network, then press Join.
It’s worth noting that some free wi-fi services, such as The Cloud, require you to log in through their web portal. Follow the steps above to connect to the network, but once connected open a web browser and attempt to visit a web page. The web portal will flash up and require you to register (or sign in if you’ve previously registered) before you can access the web.
PHOTO: iStock/PeopleImages
From: Good Housekeeping UK
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