You may not think twice about your Wifi connection. As long as it’s up and running, all is right with the world. But a secure Wifi network is crucial in maintaining your privacy and keeping your data all to yourself. And you could be unknowingly making one of several Wifi mistakes that can put your data and security at risk. Tech Expert and Writer Monserrat Cancino at Tech Detective shares the most common Wifi mistakes you should avoid because they put your data at risk — as well as the fixes you need to keep on your radar to correct the problem.
Using public Wi-Fi
Having a public Wi-Fi network is so valuable when you’re at the airport, coffee shop, or mall and need to connect. “However, doing this is may put your data at risk,” Cancino said. “You see, when you connect to a Wi-Fi network, your device establishes a link with a server, so you can access the Internet.
Public Wi-Fi makes it easier for hackers to place themselves between any unprotected device that is connected to that hotspot and the server, according to Cancino — and this allows them to easily access your information.
The solution is to take precautions when you use a public Wifi connection. “If you must connect to a public Wi-Fi network because you ran out of mobile data, avoid accessing your bank accounts, email, and any other apps that may contain sensitive personal information (home address, credit card number, phone, etc.),” Cancino said. “I also recommend investing in a data plan to avoid connecting to a public network.”
Not updating your system and apps
Updates are usually released to fix any performance issues — and they can also offer new security features that will protect your information, Cancino reminds us. “So, if you haven’t updated your device or installed apps in a while, you’re putting your data at risk,” Cancino said. “Make sure the ‘Automatic Downloads’ feature is enabled on your device, this way you don’t need to manually install any updates. Bear in mind that this feature will only work if the low power mode is disabled and if you’re connected to a fast Internet connection.”
Not changing your router’s settings
Routers come with some default settings and since all the routers produced by the same manufacturer have the same settings, hackers can easily access them, Cancino warns. “Try changing your IP address and password as soon as you buy a new router,” Cancino suggested.
Using a simple Wi-Fi password
“If you’re like me and tend to forget things, it’s common to use simple passwords to easily access your Wi-Fi network.,” Cancino said. “Unfortunately, doing this can put your information at risk because hackers may target you and use your information.”
Use a unique password for each of your accounts, one that is at least eight characters long, Cancino instructs. “Don’t forget to include lowercase and uppercase letters, numbers and symbols,” he said. “When creating a new password, don’t use any personal information like nicknames and please avoid writing consecutive keyboard combinations, such as 123.”
You don’t use a VPN
Lastly, Cancino says Virtual Private Networks are a great way to protect your information because they keep websites and hackers from tracking or accessing it. “On top of that, they hide your IP address, so you can securely navigate and access content that is originally offered in a different country (this is great if you love streaming movies or TV shows!),” Cancino said. “Try installing a VPN on your devices to protect them.”
