Public Wi-Fi networks remain an essential advantage in coffee shops, clubs, airports, and other places. Although they may seem a convenient way to browse the Internet, they also come with major security concerns. Connecting to open networks often exposes you to the danger of being targeted by a hacker using the very same hotspot. Cybercriminals are able to steal personal data from connected devices, and then use it to blackmail you for money or other favors. That is why it is crucial to stay safe—and here is how you can do it.

The Hazards of Public Wi-Fi Networks

There are numerous stories of people who used online blackmail help because their personal data was exposed while using a public Wi-Fi network. How come? The main reason is that such hotspots usually do not offer strong security measures. The lack of encryption and trusted certificates makes them a perfect target for hackers and blackmailers.

Before choosing public Wi-Fi instead of a private mobile data transfer, take a look at some of the key dangers that come along with that kind of Internet connectivity:

1. No Encryption In Place

The majority of public networks do not employ standard encryption methods like WPA2 or WPA3. As a result, all data transmitted over them is vulnerable to interception. Hackers can easily track traffic and salvage private messages, emails, photos, videos, and login credentials, among other sensitive information.

2. Man-in-the-Middle (MITM) Attacks

A Man-in-the-Middle (MITM) attack refers to a situation when a hacker intercepts communication exchanged between the user and the website or application. Cybercriminals position themselves in the middle of the victim-recipient relationship to eavesdrop on conversations, retrieve data, and alter information used later for blackmail.

3. Fake Wi-Fi Networks

Hackers often install rogue access points that resemble authentic public Wi-Fi networks. Connecting to such a network leaves the victim highly vulnerable, as the software fueling these fake networks allows cybercriminals to track and record all activities. This method is often used in places with more traffic, including cafes, restaurants, airports, and hotels.

4. Session Hijacking

Online blackmailers also possess the ability to steal session cookies storing authentication data. By getting their hands on these cookies, cybercriminals can get illegal access to their targets’ accounts. Session hijacking is extremely popular among those who want to blackmail people with their own social media or email profiles.

5. Data Sniffing

Cybercriminals have the tools required to intercept and examine unencrypted data packets shared over public networks. They can analyze specific information, and then choose the exact things they wish to extract, e.g. bank login credentials. Once they steal the data, they might use it for malicious purposes.

What Blackmailers Do With Stolen Private Data

Your private information shared over a public Wi-Fi network is not entirely safe. Blackmailers often prey on the vulnerability of such Internet connections, as they offer unencrypted access to sensitive data. As soon as cybercriminals get their hands on your data or files, they can use it to:

• Threaten to Leak Information Online: Attackers coerce their victims into paying a ransom or else they will share their private data with the public.

• Access Social Media Accounts: Blackmailers can extract sensitive information even from private social networking profiles to use them in sextortion schemes.

• Install Viruses: Cybercriminals often install spyware, malware, or ransomware to secretly record activity or lock files on a device.

First and foremost, hackers use stolen data to demand ransom money in online blackmail schemes. Therefore, it is crucial to prioritize good IT hygiene when using open wireless networks in public spaces.

How to Stay Safe Using Public Wi-Fi Networks

In 2022, there were approximately 550 million public hotspots registered worldwide. It still remains a convenient way to browse the Internet, especially when on holiday or during a business trip. Nevertheless, if you are planning on using a public Wi-Fi network, you should remain safe at all costs. Follow these tips to guarantee a secure public hotspot experience:

1. Use a VPN

A Virtual Private Network (VPN) is an encrypting service, which makes your data unreadable to hackers. Every single piece of information sent or received by your device stays encrypted with the use of tunneling through a secure virtual server. Even if a cybercriminal intercepts your data, it will remain useless to them.

2. Limit Your Browsing

When connected to a public Wi-Fi network, refrain from accessing sensitive accounts. Try not to use your bank accounts or make payments online to safeguard your finances. However, if you really need to do it, turn on your mobile data transfer instead of Wi-Fi.

3. Verify and Authenticate Networks

Before connecting to any public Wi-Fi, always double-check its legitimacy. Ask the local employees who might have a broader idea of how the network is secured. Furthermore, if a given hotspot does not require any passwords, avoid connecting to it altogether.

4. Enable Multi-Factor Authentication

MFA, or Multi-Factor Authentication, allows you to add an extra layer of security to your online accounts. MFA techniques include one-time codes sent to your email address or phone number. Even if the hacker manages to steal your basic login credentials, they will not be able to sign in.

5. Turn Off Auto-Connect

When using Wi-Fi networks, it is necessary to avoid automatic reconnecting. Disabling this feature allows you to manually choose your network each time you need to use one. While you are at it, you might also want to switch off file sharing to reduce the risk of unwanted access to your sensitive data.

6. Use Only HTTPS Websites

HTTPS stands for Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure, which is the safer version of the classic HTTP protocol. You can check it by examining the website address or a closed padlock icon in your browser. Secure protocols make it challenging for hackers to steal data, as it only travels between the browser and the server with nothing in the middle.

Take Care of Your Safety Online

Convenient as they may seem, public Wi-Fi networks serve as a sanctuary for cyberbullies who prey on careless users. Falling victim to hackers acting over Wi-Fi implies significant hazards, ranging from data theft to online blackmail schemes. Taking care of your safety when using public hotspots lowers the risk of becoming a victims of cyber extortion. Implement proactive safety measures, such as a VPN connection, Multi-Factor Authentication, and HTTPS connectivity. Always stay alert, as it is the #1 secret to secure navigation in the digital world of today.