Is It Safe to Use Public Wi-Fi with a VPN?

 

 

VPN, also known as Virtual Private Networks, enables users to browse online without revealing their identity, location, and information. VPNs are primarily used for safe and secure browsing and for accessing the websites or online content in whichever form if they have any restrictions. 

Throughout the digital passage, the users remain anonymous. Moreover, their information is hidden from theft by concealing their devices, IP addresses, and everything that can be tracked or misused. As a result, nobody from another end can tell whether they use it via laptop or determine the operating system used.

When the VPN is installed, and the user enables anonymity, they get free from all the geopolitical restrictions, and all the content on the internet becomes uncensored. Using a VPN reduces the possibility of theft, getting hacked, receiving malware, and all sorts of threats to losing confidential data, particularly if the user is online via public Wi-Fi and surfing around. 

 

The best idea is to have a steady and reliable internet connection at home so you can download some content for amusement when you go offline. Some apps, videos, games, movies, books, etc., can be saved in the device for times when the device could be disconnected from the internet for hours. We recommend checking out Spectrum Deals for safe internet browsing, which provides a free security suite with all the plans to keep all your data safe. Furthermore, you can enter your zip code in the bar at the LocalCableDeals website to check all the serviceable Internet Services Providers near you.  

 

The internet now has more information available online than ever before. Every user’s complete data is stored and scanned for advertising and marketing. 

There are two types of information/data; public and private. Information shared for the public is why we love the internet and why Technology is incomplete without Information in IT. However, the rising number of internet users and signing up at multiple points online has also increased the chances of exchanging information for immoral purposes. 

How VPN Offers Security

 

While using the public internet, typically Wi-Fi, you never know who is seeing your screen from the other end or saving your passwords and confidential information on your device. This scenario usually happens at airports, restaurants, cinemas, or anywhere where we get free internet. The chances of getting theft, a hacker’s visiting and saving personal or professional information for misusing them or using against us – is something none of us want to happen. 

 

Therefore, we use VPNs to secure our online stay and protect our online identity from everyone. Also, there is why public Wi-Fi connection is open and free for use, unlike the ones we have at our homes, friends, and workplaces. But, this temporary convenience comes with great risks along. 

 

Some noteworthy Dos and Don’ts:

 

• Do not allow your device(s) to connect with any available Wi-Fi networks. Keep it manual rather than auto-connect.
• If you had to connect with the available public Wi-Fi for any important reason, please avoid logging into any personal or professional account, particularly those with crucial information. 
• Always trust the websites that have HTTPS at the initials of their URL. The presence of ‘s’ ensures a secure network. 
• Avoid leaving the Wi-Fi (as said earlier) and Bluetooth on auto-connect constantly unless they are in use. Change your devices’ settings to manual. 
• When connected with a public Wi-Fi, refrain from visiting websites that may have sensitive data, including your banking details, transactions, healthcare account, property, or something you can operate virtually. 
• Deliberately avoid logging into the open to reach the Wi-Fi network, particularly if that is not password protected. 
• You can install a VPN on your device(s) instantly or already have it to ensure secure browsing. 

Conclusion

Sitting idle anywhere or waiting for anything in a public place can be boring or, in some cases, when we do not want to interact too much, most people tend to engage with their gadgets – phones being on top. Also, a free and open internet connection can be tempting in any case and even more convenient to connect when in a public place. 

Connecting with the internet does not always have to be gaming. Some people like to check their social media and post stories instantly, and checking emails could be more important for someone than rest, gaming to kill time, reading, or watching videos while on the go. The reasons for connecting are many but not connecting with public Wi-Fi is one: it puts all the data (online and offline) in the device at risk, especially if the router your device connects to is compromised. 

The convenience and information are undeniably comforting, but we cannot deny the threats with digital solutions. And, to escape all the digital threats and risks, we have to be extra vigilant – which is a fair deal, no? To ensure safety has already been, remember the to-dos shared above and hide your internet activity, which are quite doable for all of us. 

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