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A mobile wireless hotspot is generally more secure than a public Wi-Fi network

Use your mobile network connection. Your own mobile network connection, also known as your wireless hotspot, is generally more secure than using a public wireless network. Use this feature if you have it included in your mobile plan.

Only connect your mobile device to the Internet if needed.

Disconnect your device from the Internet when you aren’t using it and make sure your device isn’t programmed to automatically connect to Wi-Fi. The likelihood that attackers will target you becomes much higher if your device is always connected.

Disable automatic Wi-Fi connections on your devices

With automatic Wi-Fi connectivity enabled, your phone will connect to any known network or SSID that doesn’t require a password. You might be at risk if these Wi-Fi connections are monitored by untrusted third-parties. Configure your mobile devices to forget networks you no longer need, or just turn off Wi-Fi entirely.

Use the latest Wi-Fi security measures

It’s been obsolete for years, but make sure you are not still securing any Wi-Fi networks with the legacy WEP standard. WPA2 is ideal as of early 2018 and supported by any legitimate modern router or wireless-enabled device. Be on the lookout for WPA3-certified products in the coming years, as they will have additional features.

Change the default passwords on routers and other devices

Everything from your Wi-Fi router to a new baby monitor might ship with a default username and password, such as “admin” for both credentials. You should change them right away to prevent exposure to botnets designed to take over devices with easily guessed logins.

Avoid online shopping through public networks

Avoid online shopping, banking, and sensitive work that requires passwords or credit card information while using public Wi-Fi. And only use sites that begin with “https://” when online shopping or banking.