Are you struggling to keep track of all your passwords? Do you dread the thought of trying to come up with a new, secure password for every account? As the use of password managers increased among individuals and companies, researchers got curious about the efficiency of these apps. Many studies prove that a manager can strengthen a password and improve the security of an account. In fact, when most of us have 50+ online accounts, the chances that we are using one or two passwords for all of them are pretty high. And that leaves us vulnerable to a lot of online threats. But what is the best password manager? Say hello to LastPass.
LastPass is a password manager that can easily manage your passwords for different websites and online accounts. LastPass can also create extremely strong passwords for you, so you don’t have to remember them all. We wanted to dive into this software and show you how we use LastPass and talk you through some of the basics of how it works. We’ll also hit on some of the benefits of using this password manager. Whether you’re just starting out with tech or you’re looking for an easier way to manage your passwords, there’s definitely something here for you to learn.
*This post contains affiliate links and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on my links
There is no point in using a password manager if it is not easy to use. It’s one of the criteria I value with software. LastPass does not burden the user with complicated navigations and options. Its security combined with simplicity. The easy-to-use interface is evidence of how a minimum of effort is required on the part of users to maintain a LastPass account.
Ease of use is one aspect. But what about security? LastPass is not only a secure option for individuals to save their social media and bank accounts but also for larger companies. In fact, around 61,000 businesses rely on this manager for the digital security of their employees.
A Robust Integration Platform
I use LastPass for everything. I can’t think of one account where I don’t manage my login details without LastPass. What kind of accounts do I use LastPass with? Google, Netflix, Disney+, PayPal, all my social media, Spotify, Dropbox, Amazon, and on and on. What I love about LastPass is you can get these platform integrations on one device with their free option. Should you go the Premium route, you can have access to all your accounts in your “vault” (where your passwords are stored) across all of your devices. So not only is the integration cross-platform, but it’s also cross-service, which is user-centric and why I love the company.
Better yet, check out the Family Plan (which I highly recommend). Some of the features of the family plan, which offer impeccable protection when it comes to password and account security include:
Continuous monitoring of your family’s emails for data breaches
Instant notifications when any of your family’s sensitive information might be compromised
Account access for up to 5 users for one family account
LastPass access on every single device of your family’s
I generally don’t like to use price as an indicator for reviewing how well a product or service performs. Quite frankly, if something delivers value, I’ll pay for it (premium or not). BUT…you get all of these features and incredible benefits for $4/month, which is fantastic from a value perspective.
*This post contains affiliate links and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on my links
Features With Security As The Priority
Everything about LastPass oozes simplicity and oozes security. Here are the most notable features that have made security (and your personal data) a priority:
Log In And Go
LastPass is one of those services that make life easier. Once you’ve saved your password, it’ll always be there when the time comes to log in and get things done!
Passwordless Login
You can bypass login screens and get all the access you need using their authenticator instead of a password. This feature almost creates a bulletproof shell around people accessing your personal data.
Password Generator
I love when passwords are auto-generated, but prior to LastPass, I was relying on my browser (Chrome, Safari, Edge, etc) to store my passwords. Granted, there is a little bit of a security layer doing it that way, BUT…you’re still relying on those browsers not getting hacked. LastPass’ built-in password generator creates one of the most secure combos to help protect you (and your online accounts) from hackers.
Dark Web Monitoring
In my opinion, this single feature alone is worth the price of LastPass. If LastPass didn’t do anything but this…it would still be more valuable than what you pay for. Seriously. They scan the dark web looking for any mentions, signals, or cues that your personal information has been compromised.
Digital Record Storage
One very popular (and unsafe) practice I see people do is storing their personal information on their phone through a photos app or notepad app. You couldn’t ask for a more unsafe way to store personal and sensitive information on your device. LastPass allows you to store everything from garage door passcodes, insurance cards, passport info, driver’s license info, credit cards, and any type of sensitive information.
These are just a handful of my favorite benefits of LastPass. Granted, there are a lot more benefits, but I wanted to keep this simple, yet hit on the benefits I think are invaluable.
Intuitive Navigation
Not all password managers are intuitive, but LastPass is. I hate it when apps are hard to navigate. Quite frankly, I question if hard-to-use apps even have a QA team that tests the software. Nonetheless, on this app, you have a vault where all your passwords are stored. There is a search bar at the top where you can instantly type in to find the required password. The Plus sign at the bottom will allow you to add new passwords to the vault.
Other than passwords, you can also store and secure addresses, payment card information, bank accounts, and notes. All these options are available in the left column. Moreover, you can disable auto-fill and initiate it again as per your liking.
Share Folders with Others
One of the best features of LastPass is the shareability factor. You will not find another password manager that beats LastPass in this aspect. In the left column, there is an option for Sharing Center. It allows you to share folders with others. The people you are sharing with should also have a LastPass account.
If you are using a free account, you can accept and view folders being shared by others. However, the premium account will allow you to create new folders, share them, and edit access. The Shared with Others and Shared with Me categories are also helpful and the layout of sharing information across users is flawless.
Strengthen Your Passwords with the Security Challenge
Another great feature of LastPass is the Security Challenge. This helps users create the strongest possible passwords. LastPass has valuable metrics to measure the strength of a password. They’re the category kings with password security, so it makes sense that they’ve created an algorithm to help you create the BEST passwords on the planet. When you are in your vault, click on the Show My Score option to find out how strong each of your passwords is. It will highlight for you what passwords are good enough and which ones are weak.
Final Verdict: Why Haven’t You Got LastPass Yet?
LastPass password manager is an easy-to-use that excludes all the password-relevant workload from your life. I implore you to at least try out the free version of LastPass and take note of how much time, energy, and thought you will save when it comes to managing all of your online accounts. It is available in a free version as well as a premium version. From generating strong passwords to storing them in a vault, there are many useful functions that this manager has to offer you.
Apple Airtags and similar Bluetooth tracking devices have been lifesavers in helping users find their electronics, keys, wallets, pets, and other valuable items. However, as new technology comes out, hackers and predators rise to the occasion and find new ways to use and abuse the technology. We’ve previously discussed the benefits of a few types of Bluetooth devices. As with any technology, there are always pros and cons to each type; however, safety is always a concern whether it’s for you or your children.
Apple Airtags come in as one of the top Bluetooth tracking devices with a pricing of around $30 per device. One of the benefits we discussed is the overall size of the Apple Airtags as they come in a quarter size and can be attached to hard-to-find items. The most convenient feature is the Precision Finding Feature which allows Apple users who have an iPhone 11 or newer to have the location and distance to the object they need to find. If you’re using these trackers for finding your belongings, these are great features. However, the two positive features can drastically become negative if someone is using these for malicious activity.
The Problem With Bluetooth Trackers
The first problem is the size of these Bluetooth trackers. Since they are the size of a quarter, predators can easily attach them to a person’s purse, backpack, car, bike, etc. without the person noticing. The combination of the size and Precision Finding Feature means that predators can discreetly place and track the Apple Airtags completely unnoticed. In February this year, in Dayton, Ohio at Wittenberg University, an 18-year-old freshman received a notification on her iPhone that an unknown accessory had been detected and that the accessory had been with her for some time, revealing her location to the registered owner. The device had tracked this woman from the airport where she picked up a friend, to the university campus 50 miles away. However, when the police inspected the exterior of her car, they couldn’t find the Bluetooth device anywhere.
Apple does provide information on their website on what to do if you receive a notification about an Apple Airtag, including the steps to disable it. However, the website lists multiple steps per item, which seems rather difficult given a moment of vulnerability. Most other sites say you can remove the battery on the Apple Airtag once you find it. Various states including Colorado, Georgia, Michigan, Connecticut, and Texas have reported the abuse of AirTags with reports of domestic stalking and car stealing attempts. If you receive a notification about an unknown device, law enforcement recommends that you find the nearest police station, fire station, or another safe space that isn’t your home or place of work. If someone is stalking you, you don’t want them to know your frequent locations. Apple does offer help with the Find My Feature and the Item Safety Feature which allows users to search for unknown Airtags. Although Apple Airtags cannot sync with Android phones, you can use your Android phone to find an unknown Airtag and to see if you’re potentially tracked.
Android users have options like the Tile Mate Bluetooth Tracker, the Cube Smart Bluetooth Tracker, and Samsung’s SmartTag. As we discussed before, the Tile Mate has pretty snazzy features, including being water-resistant and having a tracking distance of 250 feet. For $25, this makes it cheaper than an Apple Airtag and great for finding belongings and even kids. As for keeping your children safe, it’s great for their backpacks and personal belongings. Even if they spill their lunch or drinks, the Tile Mate is water-resistant, so you can still know where your kids are despite everyday messes. Tile Mate works with iOS and Android devices, so its versatility is one of its best benefits. It also works with smart systems like Alexa, Siri, and Google Assistant. Tile Mate offers a convenient QR code that when scanned, provides the user contact information when lost.
With all the negative stories of stalking and car theft, Tile Mate created a new feature called Scan and Secure. This allows Tile Mate users to download the Tile app and scan for other Tile devices that may be with them. The Tile website does list the steps necessary to make the app work, however, the Scan and Secure app takes 10 minutes and recommends the user to move away from the location in question. Please visit their website for more information.
The Cube Smart Bluetooth Tracker
The Cube Smart Bluetooth Tracker is like Tile Mate and works with Apple and Android devices. The Cube has waterproof abilities and comes with a rechargeable battery. As with many Bluetooth devices, the Cube can locate any of your personal belongings with ease. It can even locate anything with GPS precision as it comes with a GPS app. With all this being a huge help to us, it also has its downfalls. With GPS precision, comes a predator’s ability to abuse trusted devices to locate you, your children, and/or your loved ones.
Samsung’s SmartTag
Samsung’s Smart Tag is a Bluetooth tracking device used exclusively for Samsung users. This is a big downfall. However, it gains attention with its easy setup. Even the most novice of device users can set this device up with the SmartThings app and start using it. It offers a long-term battery life and one-button interactivity. There’s much less information on this device, yet there are reported cases of malicious activity.
Bluetooth tracking devices offer many benefits, but as with all forms of technology, there are safety concerns. You can install the Tracker Detect app which can locate Apple Airtags and other similar compatible devices to help ensure you, your children, and your loved ones’ safety. If you feel like you or someone you know is a victim of domestic violence, stalking, or Bluetooth tracking abuse, please reach out to your local law enforcement.
Do you worry about viruses infecting your mobile devices? You should! In today’s digital world, it’s more important than ever to protect your gadgets from the thousands of different types of malware and viruses out there. We are faced with a constant barrage of hacks and cyber attacks and our smartphones are a focal point. We wanted to explain what viruses are, how they can infect your devices, and how to protect yourself. And just because you have a new Android or new iPhone doesn’t mean you’re immune to these virus attacks either.
How Do Viruses Infect Phones?
Although your phone will not get a virus like your PC there are still various kinds of malware that can infect your phone. Despite the marketing messaging of phone manufacturers, you can still get some nasty malware on your mobile device, especially if you’re being careless and not digitally responsible. If you are concerned about how the malware will enter your mobile, then here are some ways:
If you download apps on your phone
By downloading various kinds of nefarious content on your phone (porn is a big one)
If you link your mobile phone to other devices
By jailbreaking your smartphone
What Do Viruses Do To Your Phone?
The main objective of malware is to steal sensitive data from your Android or iPhone. That is their goal because once they have personal data, they can access financial data. Furthermore, it is important to keep in mind that hackers can benefit from the malware by gathering your personal information.
The malware is also used to send text messages to other telephone numbers and in most cases, the victim is completely unaware that his/her phone is being utilized. Another negative side of the malware is that it slows the performance of your mobile phone. Let’s keep in mind that viruses are malicious software designed to wreak all kinds of havoc for you.
Viruses On Android
When it comes to Androids, there is a moderate risk with the threat of malware on Android. One reason behind it is more freedom in the operating system. That’s one thing I hear often from Android users (compared to Apple) is that “I can do more with my Android”. Well..with that freedom comes an extra risk as well. Android lets users download apps from other sources than the official app store and that can be a problem.
In addition to that, from time to time users of mobile phones will customize the OS of the Android to get it to fit their requirements. With those customizations can sometimes come security holes. That’s why it becomes challenging for Google to make sure that all of the customers are utilizing the Android OS’s most secure version.
How To Know If Your Android Has Got A Virus?
There are various signs that will show that your Android is infected by malware.
The appearance of apps will appear unfamiliar or different
Crashing of apps (more frequently than normal because crashes do happen)
You’ll almost notice an increase in mobile data that you used (even though your consumption habits may not have changed. This is one reason why I review my data usage regularly).
Overheating (more than normal).
A quick drop in your phone’s battery life and health
How Do You Get Rid Of Viruses From Android?
If you want to get rid of the virus, then you should go for an antivirus app for Android. Once you get an antivirus app, you can run an antivirus scan. After that, you will have to follow instructions regarding the way of detecting and removing the virus on Android (it will all depend on the app you choose). These are standard operating procedures across most antivirus apps for mobile devices.
Now…Apple fans, you’re not off the hook either. I know you like to think that iPhones are superior in everything compared to Android, BUT…it is also true that iPhones can indeed get viruses as well. Despite what you might have heard in your cubicle pods or around the cooler in the breakroom that your iPhone device can never get malware, it’s just not true. The iPhone is a hotbed for mobile malware attacks. Furthermore, if you want to protect your iPhone from such attacks, then you must take sensible precautions.
A very popular malware attack is the pop-up ad on Safari. You may get trapped by a pop-up ad that claims your phone is in need of additional software to solve the problem (or you’ve won a free iPad), and most of the time that software is malicious.
How To Know That My iPhone Has Got A Virus?
Here are some of the most notable signs that show your iPhone potentially has got a virus:
Pop-up ads have become more frequent
More often, crashing of apps (more than normal because app crashes also happen on iOS)
An elevation of mobile data being used (again…make sure you’re monitoring data usage on your mobile devices).
Just like Android, one of the best ways to get rid of viruses is by getting an antivirus app, running a scan, and then following the next steps.
So…Do I Really Need Antivirus Software For My Smartphone?
In this day and age, it’s more important than ever to take steps toward securing our devices from viruses. While the iOS on your iPhone and Android devices is a fairly secure platform (although there are still risks), many people choose to install an antivirus app for extra protection against malware that can sneak onto these mobile devices through emails or social media sites like Facebook when you’re not looking out for them! And since the iPhone and Android operating systems do escape some types of malicious software nowadays, meaning they’ll never completely shield us automatically without added features, I highly recommend getting one with good scanning capabilities as well as other helpful tools such as threat detection.
There are a handful of really good antivirus software on the market for both Android and iPhones. If I had to choose one, it would be Norton 360 Mobile Security. This antivirus app is great for both iPhones and Android devices. You will get everything integrated into a single application, including an antivirus and VPN service that helps protect your privacy on public WiFi as well! It’s battery efficient because it doesn’t require constant monitoring like some other antivirus apps do (yes..battery life is important to me). This way you can use the phone normally while still getting all these great features such as being alerted about malicious links or websites before installing them (and even getting a warning when there are dangerous ones already installed). And I’ll be honest, I love getting 100% malware protection without slowing down device performance. Aggressive apps annoy me and Norton’s developers have done a fantastic job making sure device performance isn’t sacrificed in the name of security. It’s a delicate balance, but they’ve managed to do it and do it well.
Most of human life is now dependent on digital media, at least in developed countries. And that’s not going to slow down anytime soon either. You need a login for just about everything, from bank accounts to social media platforms and all kinds of apps. I read a report not too long ago that said the average user in the U.S. has nearly 100 online accounts! As the number of accounts each person holds increases, the effort they want to put into creating the password decreases. Not going to lie, there were some times when I’d just create the easiest thing I could remember. Then came password managers. The better way to save time (and a lot of headaches) is to get a password manager.
What is a Password Manager?
As the name depicts, a password manager manages your passwords. Sounds simple? Well…because it is. But what exactly does it do, and how? There are mainly three things that a password manager does.
It generates passwords for every site you visit or sign up at.
It saves all your passwords in a vault.
It fills in passwords automatically when you want to log in.
When you have a good password manager, there is nothing about passwords you have to worry about. This product can exclude all the workaround passwords for you and make your digital world the simplest and the most secure.
3 Undeniable Reasons Why You Need A Password Manager
Sometimes it feels like passwords are a necessary evil in our online lives. We need them to protect our most sensitive data, but remembering dozens of different passwords is practically impossible. And if we only use the same password over and over again (without a secure password manager), then we’re putting our security at risk. That’s where password managers come in. They keep all your passwords safe and accessible, so you never have to remember them again. Here are three reasons why you need a password manager:
Set A Master Password And Remember It
A password manager will take care of all your passwords, but there is something that falls on your shoulders. It’s not hard either. It is to remember the master password. It is your password to the manager account, where all your passwords are saved. Just. One. Password. Let that sink in. I absolutely love it.
Compare the work of remembering all your passwords with that of retaining just one. The former is a lot to put up with. Your life will become much more manageable. You will be able to focus on other things that are more important once passwords are excluded from your list of worries. Here’s the tricky part, your “Master Password” should be very complicated. No normal words or words that someone could guess about you (in my case, nothing about Batman is allowed!). I’ve come up with a great way to create a Master Password that is easy to remember, yet hard to hack. Try using the syntax of the internet within your password. So instead of “batmanrules”, use WWW.b@tmanrules. c0m! See easy to remember but really hard to hack!
It Creates The Safest Place For Your Passwords
Once you get a good password manager and set up your master password, it is time to apply multi-factor authentication. MFA is a lock on your password manager account. The key can be anything from your fingerprint to your voice or a complex combination of letters and symbols. MFA will keep your account safe from hackers by failing all invading attempts.
Make Your Logins Automatic
The amount of ease you can get by installing a password manager is not describable in words. Honestly, you can only know the beauty of this once you have the manager. Once your password manager has all your passwords saved, every time you visit a site you have an account on, the manager will automatically fill in the username and password. It’s simple tech to use.
Good password managers such as LastPass can even save your credit card information and other credentials. Banking, Email, Social Media, everything is in safe hands when you trust the LastPass manager with your passwords.
Best Password Managers I Recommend
Firstly, there are so many password managers out there. We’ve written an entire review on which ones are the best and why. Because I know there is a range of user types reading this I’ll keep it simple:
Best Free Version Password Manager: Bitwarden
All around, Bitwarden is one of the best password managers. I love this one because of its free application (a great way to get people in the door using this beneficial technology). It’s secure, open-source, and works with all kinds of operating systems (Linux, macOS, Windows, iOS, and Android).
I’m just a massive fan of LastPass. It’s what I use for everything. LastPass is DDID’s Pick for Password Managers that I unapologetically recommend to family, friends, and colleagues. Hands down, LastPass is atop the list of best password managers. It does have a free version (try before you buy). I love the security dashboard, premium tech support, seamless technology, and the ability to share passwords (securely) with family and others. Oh…and encrypted storage is vital as well.
Like the other two, this also has a free version you can check out before you buy. Because this is one of the best password managers when it comes to shareability, it has to work flawlessly between platforms and operating systems. This is where 1Password just shines. Want to share with someone in the family? Easy and secure. What about a business colleague? Dunzo. All are encrypted and they won’t even know your password.
You can read our best password managers review to check out all the details and find the right password manager for you. We break down all the features and things you should look for in a password manager.
The fast-paced lifestyle we all live often leaves us no time to develop strong passwords for every online account we have, let alone have to remember them. Can you imagine having to remember 100 unique passwords? Not happening. And if you use just one (or even a handful) passwords for all your accounts, you could be putting your personal data at risk. Raise your hand if you’re okay compromising your online security to save time and energy? Not me! Because hackers are becoming more innovative, it is vital you find a password manager you like and incorporate it into your digital life.
If you’re like most people, you most likely rely on your iPhone to keep you connected with the world (both personal and business). Whether you’re looking for the best antivirus app or just want to make sure your data is secure, these tips will help keep you protected. Apple has designed the iPhones to be secure (and Apple’s tech is phenomenal), BUT…this does not mean they don’t need any antivirus protection. iPhones are still exposed to multiple threats, including suspicious links, websites, unauthorized applications, data theft, etc.
As an iPhone user who cares about security and protecting your personal data, you should seriously invest in a reliable antivirus application to avoid data theft and cyber-attacks. Below are a few antivirus applications you can consider to keep your iPhone safe from malware attacks.
Norton Mobile Security
If you are looking for an easy-to-use antivirus application for your iPhone with multiple other features, then Norton Mobile Security should be on top of your priority list. It has many valuable features, including web protection that attacks malicious and dangerous links in text messages, emails, applications, and browsers.
Norton Mobile Security comes with a VPN that helps you secure your network and makes you anonymous. I love the idea of having an extra layer of VPN for security. Other features include Wi-Fi scanning that protects you from untrusted public internet connections. Device security warns you when your operating system requires to be updated. It also protects you from malicious text messages.
The most significant feature of NMS is dark web monitoring, which distinguishes it from other applications. Norton continuously scans the dark web for your personal information utilizing Lifelock technologies. It could contain various information elements like your email address, bank details, insurance details, etc. This and the VPN features are why I think Norton is the best antivirus app for iPhones.
You can opt for Norton Mobile Security with one device subscription ($14.99/Year). However, it offers another version called Norton 360 deluxe ($49.99/Year) that connects up to five devices.
TotalAV is another reliable antivirus software for iPhone users. The best part about it is its easy-to-use nature, making it a good fit for beginners and non-tech-savvy individuals. Therefore, if you are looking for a simple and user-friendly antivirus, TotalAV Mobile Security is a lifesaver.
It contains multiple valuable features, including protection from malicious links, monitors data breaching, photo clean-up, and device tracking. This application’s best feature is device tracking, which allows you to effortlessly track your iPhone in case you lost it or it got stolen. Granted, you do have the Find My app on your iOS devices, but this additional coverage creates an ever tighter level of security for your iPhone.
Another valuable feature of TotalAV is its VPN, which lets you securely access servers worldwide. It has a fast network, allowing you to stream your favorite shows without facing a slowdown in your web connection. We’ve written quite a bit about VPNs and we love that more apps are adding VPNs to their value prop.
TotalAV would be a great choice if you are looking for a simple antivirus for your iPhone with a competitive integrated VPN. You can also opt for its web protection services combined with its internet security packages that range from $29.00/year and connect up to 6 devices, including Android, iOS, and Windows. In terms of overall security value, I think it’s hard for any other app to compete again TotalAV.
Here is another promising malware and virus protection application for your iPhone. McAfee Mobile Security is a valuable combination of multiple features and a reliable VPN. The most significant part of this antivirus app is it does not affect your iPhone’s battery health despite constantly monitoring data breaches in the background. Besides, it is an easy-to-use application and every feature is effortlessly accessible.
The significant security features of McAfee Mobile Security include a data-breaching monitor, a Wi-Fi scanner, a VPN with unlimited data (this alone is worth the price), and circumvents dangerous links from text messages, websites, and screen notifications. The VPN keeps you secure while browsing on unsecured internet connections.
The drawback of McAfee Mobile Security is the most recently updated version on its basic plan does not provide you with anti-theft features and a secure media vault that once was available. They’re going to make you pay a little extra for it. You can get these services for a single device with a yearly subscription. However, other versions are also available that let you secure up to 10 devices, including Windows, Android, and Apple. This version’s yearly subscription begins from around $30/year.
Avira’s free security mobile app is perfect for beginners. It’s going to get you familiar with the industry and gives you a chance to really familiarize yourself with threats and security language. It is free antivirus and malware protection for iPhone users and has great privacy protection features. The most significant feature of Avira Free Mobile Security is its Privacy Manager, which prevents Apple from saving your conversation with Siri on its servers. Other features include anti-theft, a VPN (yes…a FREE VPN), photo clean-up, call blocker, breach monitor (Premium Version), anti-spam (Premium Version), Phone tracking, and Phone lock.
The free version has limited VPN data and does not provide anti-spam and data-breaching monitors. BUT…you can opt for the premium version of Avira (Avira Prime) starting from $39.99/year and connect up to five devices across all operating systems.
As our lives move increasingly online, it’s more important than ever to take steps to protect our devices from viruses and other malware. While it’s true that the iOS for our iPhones is a fairly secure platform, there are still some risks that come with using the internet on your iPhone. That’s why many people choose to install an antivirus app on their devices. But do you really need an antivirus for your iPhone?
Since iPhones’ operating systems can escape malware to some extent, you still need an antivirus with some extra features. And just looking at the price of some of these (heck…Avira is free), you’re literally talking pennies a day to get that added security benefit for your iPhone. What do I recommend? Thoroughly do your research on antivirus regarding additional features and their compatibility with other operating systems to make a wise decision. Experiment with a free version (or look for a free trial). After all, merely a single virus can ruin your whole experience.
When you’re out and about, it’s really convenient to use public wifi. But before you do, you should be aware of the security risks involved. Public wifi can be found in a lot of places, like libraries, restaurants, fast food joints, hospitals, and even some public parks. And it’s true that having public Wifi can be really helpful and convenient. But there are also some serious security risks that come with using public Wifi (almost too many to mention). For example, public wifi is often unsecured, which means that your personal information could be at risk.
Hackers LOVE public Wifi users. Hackers could potentially access your private data, like your passwords or credit card information. If you’re going to use public wifi, it’s important to be aware of the risks and take steps to protect yourself. For instance, you might want to avoid doing sensitive activities like online banking or shopping while you’re connected to public wifi. Or you could use a VPN (Virtual Private Network) like ExpressVPN, to encrypt your data and help keep it safe. Ultimately, whether or not you use public wifi is up to you. But it’s important to be aware of the potential risks before you decide to connect.
Top Security Risks Of Using Public WiFi
In this era of technology where we feel the need to always be connected, everyone needs a WiFi connection. It could be for receiving important emails or approving projects or maybe for connecting with close ones instantly. I’ll be honest, it’s nice to be able to stay connected without having to be cemented to an office chair. Many times, the only choice for that connection seems to present itself with the use of unsecured public WiFi. Free public hotspots may benefit you, but these are more fruitful for hackers to achieve unbound connections to unsecured devices on the same single network. I wanted to briefly touch upon the top security risks of using public WiFi and how you can stay protected.
The use of free public WiFi comes with various risks. Still, the most threatening risk is an amazing opportunity for the hackers to direct themselves between you and the same connection spot. It’s so important to remember this: You are not just connecting with the free hotspot, but you are sending your data to an unsecured connection.
1. Cyber Attacks
Anyone using public WiFi is at risk as they provide an opportunity for a hacker to invade their data and become cyber victimized.
Global Risk reported in 2020 that cyberattacks were the fifth top-ranked risk for people and companies working across public sectors. Think about that for a second…the FIFTH highest ranked risk for people across the globe (Theft of Data or Money was 8th!). And it makes sense considering that hackers can access all your important information, from personal images and emails to credit card numbers and even your business files. Having your personal data hacked and compromised can wreck your life. One could even argue that these cyber threats are equally as important as issues revolving around climate change and economic frictions across the globe.
2. Viruses And Malware
One of the biggest risks of using public WiFi is installing malicious software on your devices (oftentimes, you don’t even know you’re doing it). Sometimes, hackers infect public WiFi and then get a penetration route to devices that connect to it. They make a pop-up window to show a notification about upgrading popular software during the connection, thinking that it’s a real notification, a user clicks and installs some type of malware.
3. Stolen Personal Information By System Update Alerts
Hackers always try to discover unique ways to hijack information and devices. System update alerts are one in which an android or smartphone user constantly receives fake system update alerts to enable data exfiltration. That’s just a fancy word for data theft. This type of attack can be the result of a user clicking on a malicious link coming from an email message or SMS message.
Aside from these mentioned above, there are still several other serious security risks of using public WiFi like network snooping, rogue networks, encrypted connections, session hijacking, and more. This leads to the questions: What am I supposed to do? Am I supposed to never connect to public Wifi? If I connect to Wifi, how do I protect myself?
How Do You Stay Safe From The Risks Of Public WiFi?
Firstly, it’s okay to connect to public Wifi, but you need to understand the risks (we talked about above), but even more importantly…you need to know how to stay safe and protect yourself. To protect your data, you should use some basic safety precautions while using public WiFi.
Utilize VPNs
I’ve talked about this in so many articles because I believe in it. Use a Virtual Private Network (VPN) while connecting your devices with an unsecured connection. It will encrypt your data strongly. There are VPNs for all of your devices (laptops, tablets, and smartphones)
Surf The Web Securely
This is not a bulletproof tactic, but it’s a little hack you should always adopt regardless if you are on public Wifi or not. Most all browsers now support a feature called “Use HTTPS” (you can find this in the settings within the browser of your choice). When you enable this option, it will encrypt your communication and potentially keep your data secure from a hacker. Trust us. Enable this feature!
Stop Sharing Info
Turn off any data sharing from your system control panel while connecting with public WiFi. This is an easy fix. On the Windows side of the world, when you connect to a new wifi connection Windows will ask you if you want your system to be seen by other computers on the network….choosing “No” will shut down the sharing features.
Turn Mobile Data Off
You should keep your data off when you don’t require it because some active WiFi hardware can still share your data to any network within the range. Most smartphones will have this option under some networking group settings.
Very rarely do I pound the drum on getting a device with as much fervor as I do with Firewalla products. I will not connect to public Wifi unless I’m routing that connection through my Firewalla Purple device. Period. I’ve written an extensive review on the product, but some of the main benefits of this handy hardware are that it will protect your devices and data from cyber-attacks, blocks ads (and malicious pop-ups for that matter), and you can have all the devices work through the hardware so no one in the family is at risk.
In this interconnected age, people can still face and encounter digital problems with all the preventive measures. I get it. Even with all the fancy software, apps, and hardware…there are times I still don’t feel safe because I know there is a constant barrage of people out there trying to get my personal data. And at some point throughout everyone’s life, a time will come when a free, unsecured public WiFi network is only the choice available. But before you dive into that abyss of security muck and misery, consider the risk of using public WiFi and make sure you’re protected.
Public Wifi can be pretty handy. It’s great for when you’re out and about and need to get some work done. But as outlined above, there are definitely some risks that come with using public Wifi. It’s so vital to be aware of the potential dangers and take steps to protect yourself. Overall, I try to steer clear of public wifi, but if I do use it, I make sure to take the necessary precautions.
