The dangers of using public Wi-Fi networks: how to protect your Mac

dangers of using public Wi-Fi networks

Using Wi-Fi networks other than your own can be tempting, especially when you're away from home and need to connect to the Internet quickly, although there may be some dangers to using public Wi-Fi networks.

Whether in a coffee shop, airport, hotel, or library, free and open Wi-Fi networks offer convenience and easy access to the Internet, however, these networks can also present significant security risks. For Mac users, understanding these risks and learning how to protect your device is crucial to keeping your data private and secure.

And for this we have prepared this post, where we will explore the dangers of using public Wi-Fi networks and provide useful tips to protect your Mac while you are connected to these networks.

The dangers of using public Wi-Fi networks: understanding the problem

secure public wifi

Although it may seem like nothing is happening, there are situations in which public Wi-Fi networks can pose a severe risk to our data, not because the network is public itself, but because of its characteristics or worse still, because of the rest of potential users.

Lack of strong security encryption (or complete lack thereof)

Many public Wi-Fi networks do not have any type of encryption, which means that data transmitted between your Mac and the Wi-Fi access point is not protected. And although it may seem innocuous and you can have the argument of “I have nothing to hide”, be careful. There is a good amount of data that is shared when you browse.

The lack of encryption makes it easier for cybercriminals to intercept and read your information, including passwords, personal data, and banking details, as the “packets” of information we send can be intercepted. And there it's not so cool to use Public WiFi anymore.

Man-in-the-Middle (MitM) attacks: when you are not the only one on your network

In a MitM attack, a hacker positions himself between your Mac and the server you are trying to connect to, intercepting and potentially altering the communication between the two.

And while it can occur in any context, this type of attack can easily occur on a public Wi-Fi network, allowing the attacker to steal sensitive information or introduce malware to your device.

Fake Access Points: don't trust the appearance

Who can assure you that this network called “Cafeteria Customers” without a password is really a legitimate network of that establishment where you are so deliciously having a croissant and a coffee with milk? It is important that you know that also There are fake Wi-Fi access points, also known as “Evil Twin,” which are malicious networks that look legitimate.

Hackers set up these networks to look like an official public network and once connected, they can spy on everything you do online or redirect you to malicious websites, which brings us to our next point.

Malware Spread: A Club You DON'T Want to Join

Public Wi-Fi networks They can also be used to spread malware, exploiting vulnerabilities in Wi-Fi connections to introduce malicious software to connected devices.

This malware can steal information, log keystrokes, or even take control of your device, or worse, make your computer part of a Botnet to attack and continue spreading viruses and other crap.

On a public network you are not alone

Even if the public Wi-Fi network is legitimate, you can't always trust the security of other devices connected to the same network. If someone else on the network has malware or a virus, there's a chance your Mac could be compromised too through the same connection.

How to avoid dangers of using public Wi-Fi networks: prevention methods

prevent problems when using public Wi-Fi networks

Now that we know the security risks involved in using public Wi-Fi, we will tell you about certain prevention measures in case it is impossible for us not to connect.

Use a VPN (Virtual Private Network)

We have already talked about VPNs this time, but in addition to watching content from other countries in streaming apps They also serve to protect your information when you connect to public Wi-Fi networks.

A VPN encrypts all traffic to and from your device, making it difficult for hackers to intercept or view your data. However, use a reliable supplier since otherwise you would be exposing your data to the VPN provider.

Turn off file sharing

Before connecting to a public network, Make sure you turn off file sharing on your Mac, because this way you prevent another user from accessing your shared folders.

Go to System Preferences> Share and uncheck all sharing options like “File Sharing”, “Printer Sharing” and “Remote Access”, and you will prevent others from accessing your things.

Use HTTPS when browsing the websites

Make sure all the websites you visit use HTTPS instead of HTTP, since the former encrypts the data between your browser and the web server, providing an additional layer of security.

Turn off Wi-Fi if you are not going to use it

Turn off Wi-Fi on your Mac when you're not using it, as it will prevent your device from automatically connecting to insecure or fake Wi-Fi networks. Additionally, turn off the option to automatically connect to open networks in your Mac's network settings.

Use Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)

Whenever possible, enable two-factor authentication on all your online accounts, as adds an additional layer of security by requiring a second authentication factor (as a code sent to your phone) in addition to your password, protecting access to your accounts.

Disconnect if “strange things” happen to you

Pay attention to any suspicious activity on your Mac while connected to public Wi-Fi. If you notice anything unusual, such as unexpected pop-ups, error messages, or unexplained system slowdown, Immediately disconnect from the network and perform a malware scan.

Times when you should avoid connecting to public networks

dangers of using public Wi-Fi networks on mac

Although there are steps you can take to protect your Mac on public Wi-Fi networks, there are situations where it is best to avoid using these networks altogether, especially because of the information being transmitted at the time.

  • Access sensitive information: If you need to access highly sensitive information, such as bank accounts or personal data, it is best to do so over a secure, trusted network, such as your mobile data connection or your home Wi-Fi network.
  • Carry out financial transactions: Avoid conducting financial transactions, such as online purchases or bank transfers, while connected to public Wi-Fi, as this data can be easily intercepted.
  • Working with corporate or confidential information: If you are working with corporate or sensitive information, especially in a remote work environment, avoid using public Wi-Fi networks to reduce the risk of data breaches.

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked with *

*

*

  1. Responsible for the data: Actualidad Blog
  2. Purpose of the data: Control SPAM, comment management.
  3. Legitimation: Your consent
  4. Communication of the data: The data will not be communicated to third parties except by legal obligation.
  5. Data storage: Database hosted by Occentus Networks (EU)
  6. Rights: At any time you can limit, recover and delete your information.