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Don’t assume your data will be private
We generally know how to secure our wireless routers at home
and the importance of doing so. But often the same people will
gladly use Wi-Fi in an airport, coffee shop, etc. without a second
thought.
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But whether we are using free Wi-Fi, or a paid-for version,
the bad news is security is not part of the deal.
Even if you are using an encrypted network, you are not
necessarily safe, since all other users in the same cafe,
etc, are using the same password, so can see your traffic.
Follow these tips for a safer surfing experience... |
But
whether we are using free Wi-Fi, or a paid-for version, the
bad news is security is not part of the deal. |
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Use SSL for webmail
To avoid
others snooping on your email, ensure you use a Webmail system with
HTTPS for the entirety of your session. The vast majority of systems
use this when you log into your email so your password remains safe,
but after this revert back to HTTP to ease the strain on their
servers and serve advertisements easier.
This means everyone on the same wireless network can potential read
your email content, and even get their hands on your session cookie
in some cases, allowing them to log into your account even without
having your password, unless you have logged out (which you always
do, yeah?). Gmail and your corporate email system are exceptions to
this, but the majority fall under this umbrella.
So, if you have to check your emails away from the comfort of your
home or your desk, stick to SSL. Otherwise, at least make sure you
logout!
Make the most of your VPN
If you
have a VPN with Internet access through your company, use it when
accessing the Internet via Wi-Fi hotspots. Doing so ensures your
communications are encrypted, and makes sure you are accessing your
company’s resources securely. It may mean you have to work at a
slightly slower speed, but it’s worth it for peace of mind.
If you don’t have a company VPN, you can still work more safely
using HotSpot Shield, a free VPN service offered by AnchorFree. This
software can be installed prior to using public Wi-Fi for better
security. It’s not 100% secure, as data can be unencrypted at some
points, but as hackers would need access to both the AnchorFree data
centre as well as the Wi-Fi network you are on, it’s a lot better
than no VPN at all.
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