Cybersecurity practices to avoid a public Wi-Fi hacking

Author: Rich Kolko
Published: Updated:
A WINK News Investigates story. WINK News photo.
A WINK News Investigates story. WINK News photo.

Internet access can be found almost anywhere, including restaurants, hotels and parks, where free Wi-Fi is provided.

But, these networks can be penetrated by hackers.

Some hackers set up fake networks to see if people will connect. These nefarious actors will give it the name of the legitimate Wi-Fi network.

When a person is hacked, anything he or she does online can be tracked. Information on a smartphone, for instance, will be revealed. The treasure trove of information can include photos, stored passwords and financial data.

To avoid the dangerous outcome, turn off file sharing apps when joining a public Wi-Fi network — this means AirDrop for iPhone users. Also be careful of sharing sensitive data while using the public network.

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