Our guide to staying safe on public WiFi

Public WiFi is any wireless internet network that’s available to multiple users outside a private home or office. Examples include networks in cafés, airports, hotels, libraries, and even some shops or train stations. 

While convenient for catching up on emails, streaming videos, or browsing social media, public WiFi can also be less secure than your home connection. Hackers may attempt to intercept your data, and unsecured networks can make it easier for cybercriminals to gain access to your accounts.

Not all public WiFi networks are the same. Understanding the difference can help you make safer choices.

Public WiFi is convenient, but it isn’t always secure. Because these networks are shared and often lightly protected, they can expose your personal data to a range of online threats. Here are some of the most common risks to be aware of:

• Unencrypted connections: Many public networks don’t use encryption, meaning data you send could be visible to others on the same network. 

• Fake hotspots: Cybercriminals sometimes set up networks that look legitimate, like “CoffeeShop_Guest”,  but are designed to steal your information. 

• Data interception: Sensitive information like passwords, payment details, or personal messages could be intercepted on an insecure network. 

• Malware and phishing attacks: Public networks can be used to trick users into downloading malicious software or clicking on unsafe links, putting your device and data at risk. 

Many hackers target public WiFi, and some even set up fake hotspots to trick you. Here’s how to spot one and stay safe: 

1. Duplicate or familiar names: Seeing your “home network” while out, or networks that mimic trusted ones, can be a red flag. 

2. HTTP instead of HTTPS: Secure sites should start with HTTPS: if they don’t, the network could be compromised. 

3. Generic network names: Vague names like “Free WiFi” are often bait; legitimate networks usually have clear, identifiable names. 

4. Unusual activity: Pop-ups, ads, slow speeds, or frequent disconnections can indicate a rogue network. Disconnect and scan for malware if this happens. 

Here are the key steps to keep your data secure while using public WiFi: 

1. Use a VPN 

A Virtual Private Network (VPN) encrypts your internet traffic, making it much harder for anyone else on the network to see what you’re doing. This is especially useful when you’re reading emails, shopping online, or checking sensitive info outside your home. Even on trusted networks, it adds an extra layer of privacy, helping keep your online activity private. 

2. Stick to HTTPS websites

Whenever you browse, check that the websites you visit start with https://, not just http:// in the address bar. The “S” stands for secure, meaning your connection to the site is encrypted. This encryption helps keep your passwords, payment details, and personal information safe from anyone trying to snoop on the network. 

Find out more here about what HTTPS is and why this little padlock matters for protecting your personal information.  

3. Avoid sensitive transactions

If possible, avoid banking, shopping, or entering passwords on public networks. Save these tasks for a trusted home connection. If you can, save these activities for a private, trusted connection at home. It’s a simple way to keep your personal information safe without having to overthink every click.  

4. Turn off sharing

On laptops and phones, it’s a good idea to turn off file and printer sharing while on public WiFi. Leaving these on can make your device visible to others on the same network, giving someone an easy way in. Switching sharing off keeps your device more private and secure. 

5. Use strong, unique passwords

Make sure all accounts have unique, strong passwords. Avoid reusing passwords across multiple accounts, and mix letters, numbers, and symbols. A password manager can make this much easier by safely storing all your passwords, so you don’t have to remember dozens of tricky combinations. 

6. Forget the network after use

Once you leave a café, library, or any public hotspot, make sure to “forget” the network on your device. This stops it from automatically reconnecting next time and reduces the chance of accidentally exposing your data on a less secure network. It’s a quick step that keeps your connection safer. 

7. Keep your devices updated

Regular software updates aren’t just about new features; they often include important security patches that protect your device from hackers and malware. Keeping your phone, laptop, and apps up to date ensures you’re shielded from known vulnerabilities and helps your public WiFi sessions stay safer.

Extra tip: Use mobile data when in doubt 

If a network feels suspicious or you need to access sensitive information, using your mobile data instead of public WiFi can be the safest option. 4G and 5G networks are encrypted by default, so you’re better protected. 

Public WiFi can be convenient, but it often comes with security risks, especially on shared or unsecured networks. A trusted home connection is generally safer for banking, shopping and managing personal accounts. 

With Virgin Media fibre broadband, you get fast, reliable speeds plus built-in security features to help protect your devices. If your current connection isn’t cutting it, check our latest broadband deals and enter your postcode to see what’s available in your area.