- Public Wi-Fi connections are vulnerable.
- Know the name of the network you are connecting to and who controls it.
- Turn off sharing features when connected to public Wi-Fi.
- Use Colgate’s VPN connection for a secure connection.
- Forget public networks when you are done using them.
- Keep your devices up to date.
- Enable two-factor authentication on services that support it.
Wi-Fi is a communal resource. Shared. Meaning – a path to your device for experienced data thieves. The danger of data theft is directly related to how you connect to a wireless signal. CNET.com offers some valuable advice to protect you when using a Wi-Fi connection.
Know your SSID
An SSID is a name given to a wireless connection point. You select the SSID, such as “Colgate”, when you setup a connection. In public locations, such as hotels, restaurants and cafés, it is important to verify the name of the SSID so you can verify its ownership. CNET notes, “it is easy for someone who wants to intercept your data in a man-in-the-middle attack to set up a network called “Free WiFi”, or any other variation that includes a nearby venue name, to make you think it’s a legitimate source”.
Turn Off File Sharing
File sharing, especially when connected to a public hotspot, is a potential risk that can expose data on your device to others. Turning off Internet sharing, Print Sharing and File Sharing reduces the “hooks” into your device.
Use Colgate’s VPN
Using Colgate’s virtual private network (VPN) is one of the best ways to keep your browsing session secure. A VPN client encrypts traffic between your device and the VPN server, which means it’s much more difficult for a potential intruder to grab your data. Also, consider using only https connections.
For more information visit:
http://www.colgate.edu/offices-and-services/information-technology/network-services/accounts
Avoid Auto-Connections
Do not configure your device to connect automatically. Use settings that only allow you to connect to known networks. Sometimes you may need to connect, but it’s important to forget the network when you leave a hotspot so that your device won’t automatically connect when you’re in range.
Update Your Device and Apps
Keep your devices up to date with the latest versions on a trusted network. According to CNET, travellers have been caught off guard by requests to update software packages when connecting to public or hotel Wi-Fi networks. If accepted by the user, malware was installed on the device.
Enable two-factor authentication
It’s good practice to enable two-factor authentication on services that support it, such as Gmail, Twitter and Facebook. This way, even if someone does manage to sniff out your password when on public Wi-Fi, you have an added layer of protection. For more information, visit: http://www.cnet.com/how-to/tips-to-stay-safe-on-public-wi-fi/
For more information, contact the ITS Help Desk at extension 7111 or email ITSHelp@colgate.edu.
Contributors: Ellen Holm, Ahmad Khazaee, Kevin Lynch and Mark Hine.