Wireless networks are widely used but it can also be a security problem if we do not connect correctly. Especially when we surf on public networks we can run the risk of suffering cyber attacks. We don’t really know who may be behind it. Today we echo a report released by the FBI where they indicate that it is dangerous to connect to a hotel Wi-Fi network without being protected.
The FBI warns of the risk of connecting to the hotel Wi-Fi
It is common for us to connect to wireless networks that are available. We are talking, for example, of areas such as airports, shopping centers, hotels … A way to save mobile data or have better speed. However this can be a security issue, as we know.
Nowadays, teleworking has gained an important weight. This means that many workers carry out their activity remotely anywhere, not just at home. And yes, hotels have also become one of those spaces used for this.
But if we talk about security, for the FBI this is a problem. They warn of the risk of working (or connecting in general) from a hotel Wi-Fi network. This comes after they have noticed a significant increase in the use of these types of networks among remote workers. They indicate that this poses certain security risks.
What can happen if we use this type of network? The FBI indicates that personal data is in danger, as well as the very work resources that we are using. They are insecure networks and therefore we cannot know who may be behind, if they could access our computers and thus compromise privacy.
One of the reasons these networks are insecure is that passwords are not changed frequently. This means that not only can access the guests who are at that time, but anyone else who may be nearby and who knows that key. There could be malicious intruders inside the network.
Among other things, they could monitor traffic , create a twin Wi-Fi network with which to compromise users, Man-in-The-Middle attacks , data hijacking or credential theft.
How to connect safely to the hotel Wi-Fi
Luckily we can improve security when we connect to the hotel Wi-Fi or any other network that may be insecure. We have at our disposal tools and methods to take into account for this.
Something fundamental is to use a VPN tool . In this way our connection is encrypted and the data is not filtered or exposed to anyone. It is interesting to consider this option. Of course, you have to use it correctly. We saw the problem of insecure VPNs in a previous article.
Also, as recommended by the FBI, we must avoid unnecessary risks . This means not logging into sensitive services or exposing more data than is necessary.
It is also very important that our equipment is properly protected. This means that we must have security tools such as having a good antivirus . In this way we will prevent the entry of malware. But we will also have to have the latest patches and updates. Sometimes vulnerabilities emerge that can be exploited by hackers to carry out their attacks.