Wireless Hotspots... Limit activity to web surfing only!
by Neal Fisch in awareness, counterfeit websites, data security, personal security, security, spyware, tips 0
A wireless hotspot is an wireless network that is made available (open) to everyone. A good example of an open wireless hotspot would be the wireless network offered at your favorite coffee shop. These wireless networks hook computers into the public Internet — very handy, but dangerous. Because wireless hotspots are for open use, they don't provide much security protection for your data while on them. Some tips to keep in mind before you start using a wireless hotspot include:
- Try to limit your activity to web surfing only.
- You should disable peer-to-peer networking, file sharing, and remote access on your computer.
- You should always use a good personal firewall.
- You should make sure all your software including your operating system is up to date and patched.
- You should never use hotspots for online banking, bill paying, or for any transaction that would require you to give out confidential information such as a credit card number.
