How to use public wireless networks safely

Teach: How to use public wireless networks safely

What to say

Using a public wireless network safely means confirming the exact network name with staff, sticking to sites and apps that show a secure connection, and saving banking and sensitive logins for your phone's cellular data. Turn off automatic joining and file sharing, forget the network when you leave, and use a reputable virtual private network if you use public connections often.

What to show, in order

1. Ask staff for the exact network name, since fake ones with similar names are common.
2. Choose the public network option if your computer asks, which turns off sharing.
3. Check that sites show a secure connection before you type anything.
4. Use cellular data or a personal hotspot for banking and anything with your card number.
5. Turn off automatic joining of open networks in your device settings.
6. Forget the network in your settings when you leave.
7. Use a reputable virtual private network if you work from public networks often.

The check question

Ask: How do you know which network is the real one? Answer: Ask staff for the exact name

From EveryManKnows. General information, not professional advice.