Seattle/ Science, Tech & Medicine
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Published on October 10, 2024
Seattle Warned of Public Wi-Fi Dangers During Cybersecurity Awareness MonthSource: Unsplash/ Dreamlike Street

As Seattle residents enjoy the city's coffee shops and public spaces, they should be aware of the risks of public Wi-Fi—especially during Cybersecurity Awareness Month. A recent article from Seattle's Tech Talk warns that free internet can become a problem if users aren't cautious. "Public Wi-Fi may seem harmless, but it can be a playground for cybercriminals," the article warns.

To stay safe online, users can take smart steps to protect themselves. Using a Virtual Private Network (VPN) was top on Seattle Tech Talk's list of defenses, as “A VPN encrypts your internet connection, making it more difficult for attackers to intercept your data.” Furthermore, it's advised to avoid accessing sensitive information on these networks, implement two-factor authentication where possible, and always disconnect and forget the network post-use to prevent automatic reconnections that could occur without the user's consent, as per Seattle's Tech Talk.

The recommendations highlight simple yet effective habits, such as ensuring firewall and antivirus software are both active and up-to-date. These can provide significant barriers against malicious intent. Additionally, disabling sharing options like file or printer sharing on your device before joining a public Wi-Fi can cut down the potential avenues of unauthorized access to your files.

Caution is also urged when it comes to pop-ups and suspicious links. "Avoid clicking on suspicious links or pop-ups that may appear while using public Wi-Fi," according to Seattle's Tech Talk.

Seattle-Science, Tech & Medicine