Hello! This is Shemihaza, your guardian (sentinel). Everyone, when you're out and about, do you find 'free Wi-Fi' and immediately connect to it? It saves your smartphone's data usage and is incredibly convenient, isn't it? However, behind that convenient free Wi-Fi, there can be a terrifying trap waiting to target your personal information.
Dangerous Traps Lurking in Free Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi provided in public places carries the following security risks. It's as if malicious individuals are eavesdropping on your communications.
- ▸①Eavesdropping on communications: When you connect to free Wi-Fi that is not locked (unencrypted), information exchanged between your smartphone and the internet can be easily spied upon by malicious individuals using the same Wi-Fi. Passwords, credit card numbers, and email content can become completely exposed.
- ▸②Fake Wi-Fi (spoofing access points): Malicious individuals might set up fake Wi-Fi networks with names very similar to genuine Wi-Fi in cafes or stations. If you accidentally connect to one of these, all your communications will pass through the malicious individual, and important information will be stolen.
- ▸③Infection with viruses: Simply connecting to free Wi-Fi with weak security also carries the risk of your smartphone or computer becoming infected with viruses. If infected with a virus, your device could be hijacked, data stolen, or lead to further information leakage.
Checkpoints to Protect Yourself
To protect your important information, always check the following points when using free Wi-Fi.
- ✓Confirm that you absolutely do not perform operations that involve entering important information such as passwords or credit card details, like online banking or online shopping, on free Wi-Fi.
- ✓When connecting to free Wi-Fi, confirm that there is a key icon (evidence of encryption) and absolutely do not connect to Wi-Fi whose provider is unclear.
- ✓When not in use, turn off your smartphone's Wi-Fi function or do not set it to automatically connect to Wi-Fi.
- ✓If you absolutely need to use free Wi-Fi, check if you can use a service called 'VPN (Virtual Private Network)' which encrypts communications and creates a secure path.
- ✓Properly install security software on your smartphone and computer and ensure it is always up to date.
Where to Seek Help When in Trouble
If you feel something is 'off' while using free Wi-Fi, or if you suspect you might have been a victim, immediately consult a trustworthy person. If you don't know where to turn for advice, contact the Consumer Hotline (188) or the Police Consultation Dial (#9110). In emergencies, such as unauthorized credit card use, call your card company immediately to stop its use.