Everyday activities such as reading email or news can be risky at public Wi-Fi hotspots, according to Norton, Inc.
When you join a public network, you are at risk for a cybercriminal intercepting, or just snooping in your private communication. This can compromise your passwords and credit cards.
Some Wi-Fi hotspots look familiar but can be malicious. Norton gives the example of a hotel called the Goodnyght Inn. You join the network Goodnght Inn. Check the spelling. The name is not the same. It is probably a rogue hotspot set up by cybercriminals.
Norton gives these rules:
– Never allow your Wi-Fi to auto-connect to networks.
– Don't click on links. Go directly to the website and verify it by typing https before the address.
– Don't leave on your Wi-Fi or Bluetooth if you aren't using them.
– Never access business or financial accounts on public Wi-Fi.
