Protect Your Network, Safeguard Your Security
Cybersecurity Awareness Week
Enhance Cybersecurity Awareness
What are the risks of logging into online banking or handling sensitive information while using free Wi-Fi at airports or shopping malls? How can we use free public Wi-Fi more safely? Additionally, how can we determine if a Wi-Fi network is a phishing hotspot created by hackers?
Cybersecurity Awareness Week
Ma Hongliang
Director of the Department of Cybersecurity, Shihezi University
In public places, it is advisable to avoid using freeWi-Fi, as one should adopt the mindset that “there’s no such thing as a free lunch.” Accessing unencryptedHTTP websites through free public networks poses a significant risk of having network information or activities intercepted, as unencryptedHTTP websites can directly display many plaintext inputs from users, such as usernames and passwords. This can be easily achieved with professional tools likeWireShark. In fact, almost all smartphones have data capabilities; do not be tempted by the allure of free data, as using your mobile data is usually sufficient for internet needs.
There are three main criteria to determine if aWi-Fi network is a phishing hotspot created by hackers:
1 If the connected hotspot has an exceptionally strong signal, caution is warranted;
2 If connecting to the hotspot prompts you to enter a password or sensitive information, disconnect immediately;
3 If connecting to a free hotspot leads to sites that require you to log in, such as shopping or social media sites, this is a typical characteristic of phishing sites. These counterfeit sites closely resemble legitimate shopping or social media pages, and unsuspecting users may enter their usernames and passwords, compromising their network information and even electronic funds. Once criminals obtain your username and password, they will attempt to use them across different platforms!
Source: Tuanju Client
Editor: Li Xue, Wang Yanqiao
Chief Editor: Chu Jiazhu, Ma Meng
