How to protect your traffic from surveillance when using open Wi-Fi networks

Open Wi-Fi networks are public wireless networks that any user can connect to without a password or other form of authorization. They are often found in public places such as cafes, airports, libraries and parks. Such networks provide a convenient way to connect to the Internet, but they can also pose a threat to the security of your data. In this article, we will look at ways to protect your traffic from surveillance when using open Wi-Fi networks.

The risks of using open Wi-Fi networks

Using open Wi-Fi networks can have a number of risks related to the security and confidentiality of user data. Let's take a closer look at them:

1. The Man in the Middle (Man in the Middle)
   With this type of attack, an attacker gets the opportunity to intercept data transmitted between two devices connected to the same network.

   What it threatens: leakage of confidential information such as usernames and passwords.

2. Disabled encryption
   If the Wi-Fi network is not password protected or uses a weak encryption protocol, then attackers can easily gain access to the transmitted data.

   What it threatens: theft of personal information, financial data, or even the use of a user's computer to conduct cyber attacks.

3. The spread of malware
   Attackers can distribute malicious software over an open Wi-Fi network that can infect your computer or mobile device.

   What it threatens: loss of control over the device, leakage of personal data, or even financial losses.

4. Fraudulent access points (fake Wi-Fi hotspots)
   Some attackers create fake access points with similar names so that users connect to them instead of official access points.

   What it threatens: fraudsters can gain access to the transmitted data and use it for their own purposes.

5. Wi-Fi surveillance (Wi-Fi sniffing)
   Attackers can use special programs to intercept transmitted data over an open Wi-Fi network.

   What it threatens: leakage of personal information such as usernames and passwords, as well as the ability to track user activity on the Internet.

   To avoid these risks, use a virtual private network (VPN), which creates a secure tunnel between your device and the Internet, avoid using open Wi-Fi networks to transfer confidential information, and always check the name of the access point before connecting to it.

How to protect traffic and yourself from surveillance?

To protect your traffic and yourself from surveillance when using open Wi-Fi networks:

1. Avoid accessing confidential information
   Try not to send personal information, such as passwords or bank card numbers, over open Wi-Fi networks. If you need to share such information, it is better to use a secure connection.

2. Use HTTPS sites: Always make sure that the site you visit starts with "https" and not just "http".
   This means that the connection between your device and the server is encrypted and secure.

   

3. Use a browser extension that blocks sites without HTTPS protocol
   Such extensions help prevent access to unsecured sites that may be dangerous to your privacy.

4. Configure the connection settings
   Disable automatic connection to open Wi-Fi networks on your device. This will help to avoid accidental connection to a fraudulent access point.

   

5. Use two-factor authentication (2FA) for your accounts
   This adds an additional layer of security by requiring you to confirm your login with a code sent to your device.

6. Use the "forget network" function
   This feature deletes stored Wi-Fi network data from your device, making it difficult for intruders to access your data.

   

7. Use an antivirus
   It will help you detect and block any malware that may try to enter your device through an open Wi-Fi network.

8. Restrict access to files
   Make sure that your important files are stored encrypted or accessible only through secure connections.

9. Use VPN services
   A Virtual Private network (VPN) creates a secure tunnel between your device and the Internet, hiding your IP address and encrypting all the data you send and receive.

Using VPN services is one of the most effective ways to protect your traffic and privacy when using open Wi-Fi networks. One of these services is our Zamа VPN.

Zama guarantees:

• encryption and protection of your data from unauthorized access.
• complete anonymity on the Internet.
• fast and stable internet connection.
• work on various operating systems and devices, including Windows, macOS, iOS and Android.

How to determine connection security: signs of an unsecured connection

There are several signs that may indicate an unsafe connection to an open Wi-Fi network:

1. There are many repetitive open networks with similar names
   This may be a sign that an attacker is trying to lure users to a fake access point.

2. Lack of encryption
   If you see that the site address starts with "http" instead of "https", it means that the connection is not secure and data may be intercepted.

3. Slow internet speed
   If the Internet speed is very slow or intermittent, this may be a sign that an attacker is using your network for their own purposes.

4. The appearance of pop-ups or advertisements
   If you start seeing unusual pop-ups or ads, it may be a sign that your device has been infected with malware.

5. Problems accessing certain sites
   If you are unable to access some sites or receive error messages, this may be a sign that your network is blocked or controlled by an attacker.

If you notice at least one of these signs, it is recommended that you immediately stop using this network and take measures to protect your privacy and security.