There’s no denying that public Wi-Fi is a very convenient service; it’s usually free and allows you internet access when you’re outside your home or office. Some people rely on these services to cut cost on mobile data. However, public Wi-Fi services are generally less secure and safe than your personal network. You should take certain precautions if you have to get on these networks, including turning off a particular setting.
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File-sharing and air drop
When using public network, you should know that other people with varying degrees of tech savviness are on it as well. File sharing and airdrop allow you to easily share files between devices. Other users can intercept whatever it is you’re trying to share on this public network. Kirill Sajaev, founder of AUQ.io told SheFinds:
Use file sharing only when necessary. You could also use a virtual private network (VPN) when connecting to public Wi-Fi. Any information, including your browsing history and personal data such as passwords and login details, is protected from prying eyes.
Auto-connect
If you use your home or office Wi-Fi, it makes sense to have your phone automatically connect to any network that is in range. But, you should remember to turn this feature off when you’re outside your home or workplace to avoid connecting to unsafe networks, according to SheFinds.
The reason why tech expert Jimmy Huh cautions against keeping this setting on is the threat of other users accessing your phone or computer.
This can be a dangerous setting for those who are using public Wi-Fi because it will allow anyone with a computer or mobile device to access data from your phone.
It’s quite simple to deactivate this setting: Settings – Wi-fi – tap on ‘i’ icon next to Network – toggle ‘Auto-join’ off.
Sources used:
SheFinds: The One Setting That Should Always Be Disabled When Using Public Wi-Fi, According to Tech Expert
Wired: Simple Steps to Protect Yourself on Public Wi-Fi
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