If you or your employees regularly use public Wi-Fi for work, understanding the hidden dangers is crucial. Here’s why doing business on public Wi-Fi is a major security risk and how to protect yourself.
The Auto-Join Wi-Fi setting on iPhones automatically connects your device to any public hotspots in your area at cafes, restaurants, and other locations, sometimes without you even realising it.
By default, this feature can expose your phone to potential security threats, making it easier for cybercriminals to intercept sensitive data.
Essentially, it’s like walking around with a digital bullseye on your device. Disabling Auto-Join can help keep your accounts and information secure.
Keep reading to find out how you can use public Wi-Fi securley in 2025…
Yes, but cautiously. Public Wi-Fi hotspots are useful for browsing and general tasks but should not be used for sensitive transactions or confidential business activities without extra security measures like VPNs.
Yes! Mobile hotspots are generally more secure than public WiFi because they use cellular networks with encryption. However, to enhance security:
Set a unique, complex password for your hotspot.
Configure security settings to prevent unauthorised access.
Regularly check who is connected to your hotspot to prevent intrusions.
Reduce exposure by disconnecting when the hotspot isn’t needed.
Using public Wi-Fi comes with security risks, but you can mitigate them with the following practices:
A VPN encrypts your internet connection, making it much harder for hackers to intercept your data.
Always use a trusted VPN service when working on public networks, if you need help setting up a secure VPN contact our team who have heaps of experience helping businesses and individuals set up VPNs to support hybrid workers.
Even if your password is compromised, MFA adds an extra layer of security by requiring a second verification step (such as a code sent to your phone).
Do not log in to banking portals, company systems, or sensitive databases while connected to public Wi-Fi.
Use a secure, private network instead.
Disable auto-connect settings on your device and turn off file sharing to prevent unauthorised access to your files.
Instead of using public Wi-Fi, tether your device to your mobile network for a safer connection.
Disable file sharing features to prevent unauthorized access
Ensure the sites you visit use HTTPS for encrypted connections.
Ensure your operating system, antivirus software, and firewall are always up to date to protect against cyberthreats.
While public Wi-Fi offers convenience, it comes with serious cybersecurity risks.
Cybercriminals can steal sensitive business data, hijack credentials, and deploy malware—all without you realising it. To remain secure, avoid using public Wi-Fi for work whenever possible.
If you must connect, always use a VPN, multi-factor authentication, and other security measures to minimise risk.
Staying cyber-aware ensures you remain secure, compliant, and trustworthy, no matter where you work.
Download our free cybersecurity basics for businesses by clicking below.
If you’ve got this far, you are concerned about cybersecurity. Keep yourself super safe and download our free cybersecurity guide
Click here to view now!
Many industries, including finance, healthcare, and legal services, must comply with strict data protection regulations such as GDPR, PCI DSS, or HIPAA. Using unsecured public Wi-Fi can lead to:
If your business handles confidential data, public Wi-Fi should never be used for accessing or transmitting sensitive information.
How hackers exploit public Wi-Fi:
One called “Airport Free Wi-Fi” and another called “Airport Wi-Fi Secure”.
They both sound legit, but one of them could be a fake network set up by cybercriminals.
Once you are connected to the fake network, scammers can monitor everything you do online.
They can also steal your cookies and gain access to your login details and personal information. Some truly savvy hackers are even capable of installing malware on your device without you clicking anything. Now, that is scary!
So, you can see how easy it is for hackers to access everything you do on your device.
If you send emails, log in to company portals, or make financial transactions on public Wi-Fi, your sensitive business data could be at risk.
Password Theft and Credential Hacking
Logging into your business accounts on public Wi-Fi exposes your credentials to hackers. If an attacker intercepts your login details, the same way they can access your personal information they can:
Many businesses rely on password-protected services, but if hackers get hold of your login details, they can infiltrate your systems without your knowledge.
Some public Wi-Fi networks are compromised with malware that automatically infects connected devices. When you connect, you could unknowingly download malicious software, leading to:
Even innocently browsing the web on public Wi-Fi can expose you to malware if the network is compromised.
Public Wi-Fi makes Business Email Compromise (BEC) easier for attackers. Cybercriminals can intercept email communications and impersonate executives, employees, or vendors to:
BEC scams have cost businesses billions globally, and public Wi-Fi makes these attacks easier to execute.
If you’ve got this far, you are concerned about cybersecurity. Keep yourself super safe and download our free cybersecurity guide
Click here to view now!
Agnes Molnar
Agnes is Syn-Star’s expert content writer, she has Master’s degree in English Literature that provides a strong foundation in writing and critical thinking of everything she does.
Qualifications: Masters in English Literature
In-house training: HubSpot SEO, WordPress Training.
Learn more about IT Support
Agnes Molnar
Agnes is Syn-Star’s expert content writer, she has Master’s degree in English Literature that provides a strong foundation in writing and critical thinking of everything she does.
Qualifications: Masters in English Literature
In-house training: HubSpot SEO, WordPress Training.
Contact us now
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