In this post, I will show you 5 safety tips when connecting to Wi-Fi overseas.
Today, due to the widespread availability of WI-FI, the majority of restaurants, hotels, and shopping centers, provide their clients with free access to public networks.
Access to the internet nowadays is more crucial than ever, especially when traveling. However, fraudsters frequently keep an eye on open Wi-Fi networks and intercept information sent across the connection.Â
This way, cybercriminals can gain access to a user's banking credentials, account passwords, and other valuable information. We have compiled five tips for you to protect your data when traveling abroad.Â
In addition to safety in the digital world, your own physical safety while traveling is also essential. Fraudsters typically operate in public places, especially in public transport, and for this reason, it is worth opting for renting your own car.Â
As a result, you will not only protect yourself but also be able to comfortably and quickly move around the city. Car rental services provide a wide range of vehicles for all tastes and budgets.Â
Moreover, you can combine business with pleasure and take advantage of premium car rental Dubai, which will surely provide you with an unforgettable experience. Specialists of the car hire service will help you to make a choice, but it is also possible to rent a vehicle in advance on their website.
For now, let's go back to digital security and the measures you can take to protect yourself.
Table of Contents
Traveling Abroad: 5 Safety Tips When Connecting To Wi-Fi Overseas
1. Do not input additional information
Occasionally, some Wi-Fi hotspots may ask you to provide your mailing address or phone number. Unless you trust the company, do not provide this information. Often this information can later be used for various market studies and spam mailings.
However, if it is still required in order to connect to the Internet, use an additional or non-existent mailing address or phone number.
READ ALSO: How to Ensure Security and Safety when Traveling for Business
2. Choose a secure HTTPS connection
Browse sites only with a secure HTTPS connection. This connection is quite easy to recognize. The address bar of your browser will show https:// instead of http://. In the Google Chrome browser, the address bar will also show a small icon with a green lock on it.
3. Disable AirDrop and file access
It's pretty easy to get malicious code on your device through an open Wi-Fi hotspot. Therefore, it is recommended to disable file sharing and AirDrop.Â
In order to do this, go to the Network and Sharing Center if you're connecting from a Windows-based computer, select Change advanced sharing settings, and turn off file transfer and wireless printing.Â
Mac owners need to open the settings, select the Sharing menu and uncheck all the checkboxes. Afterward, launch Finder, select AirDrop, and disable file transfer for other users. Thus, no one will be able to take advantage of the device's vulnerability.
4. Check the terms and conditions you agree to
When connecting to an open Wi-Fi hotspot, you can often see a message with terms of use that you must agree to. Reading all the rules is strongly recommended. The company may sometimes use the data on the sites you visit for its own purposes.Â
5. Use VPN services
One of the safest ways to surf the Internet through open Wi-Fi hotspots is to use a secure data connection with a VPN.
Keep in mind that not all free VPN providers are safe. Be sure to use only reputable services, or better to pay for the long term subscription to protect your data on a daily basis.
READ ALSO: Taming the IoT in the Wild: How To Secure Your IoT Device
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are FAQs on Safety Tips When Connecting To Wi-Fi Overseas:
Is it safe to use public Wi-Fi overseas?
Public Wi-Fi can be convenient, but it's important to be aware of the risks. Unsecured public Wi-Fi networks can be infiltrated by hackers who can steal your personal information, such as your passwords and credit card details.
What are some tips for staying safe on public Wi-Fi?
- Avoid using public Wi-Fi for sensitive activities: If you can, avoid using public Wi-Fi for activities that involve sending or receiving sensitive information, such as online banking or checking email accounts that contain sensitive information.
- Use a VPN: A VPN (virtual private network) encrypts your internet traffic, making it much more difficult for hackers to steal your information.
- Be careful what you share: Be mindful of what information you share online when connected to public Wi-Fi. Avoid sharing personal information such as your home address or phone number.
- Disable file sharing: On your computer, disable file sharing to prevent other devices on the network from accessing your files.
- Turn off Wi-Fi when not in use: When you're not using Wi-Fi, turn it off to reduce the risk of someone hacking into your device.
Should I use a mobile hotspot instead of public Wi-Fi?
Using a mobile hotspot can be a more secure option than using public Wi-Fi, as it creates a private network for your devices. However, using a mobile hotspot can use up a lot of data, so be sure to check your data plan before using it extensively.
READ ALSO: 8+ Best Free VPN services for PCs [Not Free Trial]
What if I don't have a VPN?
If you don't have a VPN, there are still some things you can do to stay safe on public Wi-Fi. Be careful what information you share online, and avoid using public Wi-Fi for sensitive activities. You can also consider using a paid Wi-Fi service, which may be more secure than public Wi-Fi.
What are some other things to keep in mind when connecting to Wi-Fi overseas?
- Be wary of Wi-Fi networks that require you to enter personal information to connect. These networks could be fake and set up by hackers to steal your information.
- If you're unsure about the security of a Wi-Fi network, it's best to err on the side of caution and avoid using it.
Bottom Line
In the end, we would like to note that in the next few years, a new Wi-Fi protocol will be widely implemented, which will significantly increase the security of public access points.
In the meantime, in order to avoid accidents, it is better to check what data you receive and what sites you visit.
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About the Author:
Christian Schmitz is a professional journalist and editor at SecureBlitz.com. He has a keen eye for the ever-changing cybersecurity industry and is passionate about spreading awareness of the industry's latest trends. Before joining SecureBlitz, Christian worked as a journalist for a local community newspaper in Nuremberg. Through his years of experience, Christian has developed a sharp eye for detail, an acute understanding of the cybersecurity industry, and an unwavering commitment to delivering accurate and up-to-date information.
