Hello! I am Shemhaza, a Guardian (Sentinel). Today, I'll be discussing 'free Wi-Fi,' something almost everyone has used at least once when out and about, and the dangerous pitfalls hidden behind its convenience.
Free Wi-Fi, available for free in cafes, stations, airports, and other places, is incredibly helpful because it allows you to use the internet without worrying about your smartphone's data usage. However, precisely because of its ease of use, your important personal information might be targeted without you even realizing it.
Unexpected Pitfalls of Free Wi-Fi
Let's look at the dangerous tactics used with free Wi-Fi, where your information might be stolen without your knowledge.
- ▸① The risk of 'eavesdropping,' where communication content is completely exposed: When you connect to unencrypted free Wi-Fi, your smartphone's communication with the internet can become visible to others. There's a risk that entered IDs, passwords, credit card information, and more, could easily be spied on by malicious individuals.
- ▸② Beware of 'spoofing Wi-Fi' that looks just like the real thing: Malicious individuals may set up fake Wi-Fi (fake access points) with names remarkably similar to legitimate free Wi-Fi, intending to trick you. If you connect to one of these, any information you enter will be sent directly to the malicious party.
- ▸③ The possibility of virus infection or your smartphone being hijacked: By connecting to insecure Wi-Fi, your smartphone could become infected with a virus, or in the worst case, it could even be remotely controlled. There have also been reports of personal information being stolen without the user's knowledge, or users being redirected to malicious websites.
- ▸④ Cases where personal information is sold without your knowledge: Rarely, the Wi-Fi provider might collect data such as users' internet browsing history and sell it to advertising companies or similar entities. While not direct fraud, this constitutes a violation of privacy.
Checkpoints to Protect Yourself
To protect yourself from these dangers, please pay attention to the following points when using free Wi-Fi.
- ✓Avoid exchanging important personal information, such as logging into online banking or entering credit card details, while connected to free Wi-Fi. If absolutely necessary, use your smartphone's mobile network (4G/5G).
- ✓Check if 'Auto-connect' is turned 'Off' in your smartphone or computer's Wi-Fi settings. If you don't, you might unknowingly connect to a dangerous Wi-Fi network.
- ✓Never connect to Wi-Fi networks from unknown providers or those that do not display a lock icon (🔒), indicating they are unencrypted.
- ✓Verify that you are using a service that encrypts communications, such as a VPN (Virtual Private Network). Using a VPN allows you to use the internet safely even on free Wi-Fi.
- ✓Check if security software is installed on your smartphone or computer. In the unlikely event that you connect to a dangerous Wi-Fi network, this can minimize the damage.
Where to Seek Help When in Trouble
If you get into trouble due to using free Wi-Fi, such as personal information leaking or receiving fraudulent charges, don't try to handle it alone; seek advice immediately.
If you call the Consumer Hotline '188' (no area code needed), they will direct you to the nearest consumer affairs center. Additionally, you can use the Police Consultation Dial '#9110'. If you notice any unauthorized use of your credit card, contact your card company immediately to have it stopped.