Is public Wi-Fi safe: The dos and don’ts of public Wi-Fi safety

How safe is public Wi-Fi?

Public Wi-Fi is generally considered not safe and should always be used with caution. Most free Wi-Fi hotspots in cafés, hotels, airports, or libraries have little or no protection. 

A rule of thumb is that no password means no encryption between your device and the router, leaving your data exposed. However, keep in mind that even when a password is required and WPA2 or WPA3 encryption is in place, the risks of using public Wi-Fi remain because multiple users share the same network.

Many people think public Wi-Fi is safe if a site shows HTTPS, but that only protects the traffic between your browser and the website. Attackers can still exploit insecure networks with snooping, fake hotspots, or man-in-the-middle attacks.

Is it safe to use a public Wi-Fi network that isn’t password protected?

No, it is not safe to use a public Wi-Fi network that isn’t password protected. Open Wi-Fi hotspots provide no encryption between your device and the router, which means your unencrypted traffic (HTTP) — including logins, messages, and browsing activity — can be easily seen by anyone nearby. These unsafe Wi-Fi networks are a prime target for hackers, making them one of the biggest dangers of using public Wi-Fi.

Is it safe to use hotel Wi-Fi?

Hotel Wi-Fi is not completely safe, even if it’s password protected. While most hotels require guests to log in, these networks are still shared among hundreds of people, which makes them similar to other unsecured networks.

It is important to stay vigilant about hotel Wi-Fi security. Make sure to enable your firewall, disable file sharing, and use a virtual private network (VPN) to encrypt your traffic. 

Unless absolutely necessary, avoid entering sensitive data, such as online banking credentials. Compared to airport Wi-Fi, which is usually open and serves thousands of devices per day, hotel Wi-Fi feels private but often gives a false sense of safety.

How do I protect myself on hotel Wi-Fi?

You can protect yourself on hotel Wi-Fi by adjusting your device settings and adopting safer browsing habits. Start by turning on your device’s firewall and disabling file sharing so other guests can’t access your data. Always connect through a reliable VPN, which encrypts your traffic and hides it from anyone trying to spy on the same network. 

Keep your operating system and apps updated because outdated software is more vulnerable to attacks. Finally, avoid sensitive activities like online banking or entering credit card details when using hotel Wi-Fi, unless you’re certain the connection is secure.

Is it safe to use airport Wi-Fi?

No, airport Wi-Fi is generally unsafe and should be used with caution. Unlike hotel Wi-Fi, which usually requires a room number or guest password, airport networks are often open to anyone. This vulnerability makes them typical examples of unsecured networks, where attackers can easily set up fake hotspots or monitor the activity of thousands of travelers passing through each day.

The risks of public Wi-Fi are even higher in airports because of the huge number of users and the constant movement of devices. Hackers take advantage of this environment to launch snooping or man-in-the-middle attacks.

What precautions should you take before connecting to airport Wi-Fi?

If you must connect, limit your activity to general browsing, avoid entering passwords, and use a VPN to keep your traffic private. 

Before logging in, confirm the official network name with airport staff to avoid fake hotspots. Turn off automatic connections on your device so it doesn’t join unknown networks without your approval. 

Keep your firewall and security software enabled and avoid sensitive actions like online payments or shopping. By combining these steps, you lower the risks associated with using airport Wi-Fi in such a crowded and high-target environment.

Why is free Wi-Fi not safe?

Free Wi-Fi is not safe because it usually lacks strong security protections. A public Wi-Fi hotspot often doesn’t require a password, which means no encryption between your device and the router. This vulnerability creates opportunities for attackers to watch what you’re doing online or trick you into connecting to a fake access point.

Even though most websites now use HTTPS, and you can check the padlock icon or web address to confirm it, that doesn’t fully remove the risks. Cybercriminals can still launch man-in-the-middle attacks, set up rogue hotspots, or exploit outdated devices on the same network. 

Without tools like a VPN and multifactor authentication on your accounts, your logins and personal data remain at risk when you’re using free Wi-Fi.

Is using a wireless connection on a laptop riskier than on a smartphone?

Yes, but both devices carry security risks, which show up in slightly different ways. Laptops often store more files, work documents, and saved logins, making them a bigger target if the device is compromised on a public Wi-Fi hotspot. Smartphones usually rely on apps, which sometimes send data in the background, so sensitive information can still leak if the connection isn’t secure.

Is cellular data safer than Wi-Fi?

Yes, cellular data is generally safer than Wi-Fi. Mobile networks use strong encryption by default, so it is harder for attackers to intercept your traffic than an open Wi-Fi connection. 

Using cellular data instead of connecting to an unsecured Wi-Fi network can help you avoid the common risks associated with public Wi-Fi, such as fake hotspots and man-in-the-middle attacks. For activities like online banking or logging into accounts, cellular data is the safer option.

Risks of using public Wi-Fi

The security vulnerabilities in unsecured public Wi-Fi networks create opportunities for various types of cyberattacks. From passive data collection to active account hijacking, the main threats include:

• Data interception. On an unsecured network, attackers can perform Wi-Fi snooping or an eavesdropping attack to capture the information you send, including emails, search queries, or even login data if the connection isn’t encrypted.
• Man-in-the-middle (MITM) attacks. A MITM attack happens when a hacker secretly positions themselves between your device and the website you’re visiting. This interception allows them to monitor or manipulate your communication in real time.
• Malicious hotspots. Cybercriminals can set up fake Wi-Fi networks with names like “Free_Airport_WiFi” to trick you into connecting. Once you join, they can steal personal details or push malware onto your device.
• Malware distribution. Public Wi-Fi can be used to spread viruses or malicious software, especially if your device is not updated or if file sharing is left on.
• Session hijacking. In a session hijacking attack, cybercriminals hijack your active session on a website or app. Once they obtain your session cookies, they can access your accounts without needing your password.

How to safely use public Wi-Fi

The best way to reduce the dangers of public Wi-Fi is to follow the dos and don’ts of using public Wi-Fi. Since you can’t control the security of the network itself, your defense strategy must focus on what you can control: your device settings, your online behavior, and the tools you use for protection.

The dos of using public Wi-Fi

When connecting to a public Wi-Fi hotspot, a few simple practices can reduce the risks. Always protect yourself with a VPN when on public Wi-Fi — this tool will encrypt your connection and keep your traffic private. Whenever possible, choose a secured public network rather than an open one — secured networks usually require a password before you can connect. Also, remember to keep your device’s firewall enabled, turn off file sharing, and make sure your software is up to date to limit vulnerabilities.

The don’ts of using public Wi-Fi

When using public Wi-Fi, avoid any activity that involves sensitive information. Online banking, shopping with credit cards, or logging into accounts with personal data should be skipped on unsecured networks. It’s also best not to enter passwords, upload private files, or access work platforms while connected to an open hotspot. These actions increase the chances of your details being exposed if the network is compromised.

How to get secure Wi-Fi when traveling

The safest way to access Wi-Fi while traveling is to use a VPN, which encrypts your traffic on any network. If possible, switch to your cellular network or carry a portable Wi-Fi hotspot instead of relying on public connections. Whenever you must use public Wi-Fi, avoid accessing sensitive accounts like your bank accounts.

Signs you may be connected to an unsafe Wi-Fi network

Not all public Wi-Fi hotspots are what they seem. Some warning signs can indicate that the network is unsafe or even malicious. Watch out for the following signs:

• No password required — completely open networks let anyone connect, including attackers.
• Unusual network names — generic or suspicious SSIDs, or names mimicking official ones (e.g., “FREE_AIRPORT_WIFI”).
• Unexpected login pages — redirects asking for excessive personal details.
• Unwanted pop-ups or ads — a flood of ads or prompts to install software upon connecting.
• Security warnings — browser alerts about invalid or insecure certificates.
• Requests for sensitive information — demands for personal data, credit card numbers, or passwords.
• Inability to verify legitimacy — staff or officials are unable to confirm the correct network.
• Frequent disconnects/reconnects — possible interference from someone trying to monitor or control your traffic.

If you notice any of these red flags, disconnect immediately and avoid entering personal information or passwords.

How to check if the Wi-Fi network is secure

Not every public Wi-Fi hotspot is dangerous, but it’s important to know how to spot the safe ones. When connecting, always check for the following:

• The network requires a password to join.
• It uses WPA2 or WPA3 encryption (not WEP or open security protocols).
• The official network name is confirmed by staff or signage.
• No duplicate or suspiciously named networks are available.
• You are not redirected to strange login pages asking for unnecessary details.

Why is my Wi-Fi saying “unsecured network”?

When your device says “unsecured network,” it means the Wi-Fi connection between your device and the router is not protected at all. 

This issue usually occurs when there is:

• No encryption. Unencrypted traffic (HTTP) can be read by others nearby. 
• No Wi-Fi password. Anyone can join the network freely.
• No authentication. The network cannot verify who is connecting.

If you see this warning, treat the connection as unsafe and avoid entering any sensitive information.