Cybersecurity · Beginner level

Beginner level · Module 4: Safe Browsing and Data Privacy · Lesson 2 of 3

Public Wi-Fi and Network Safety

Stay safe on shared and public networks.

In this lesson you will

  • Identify risks of public Wi-Fi
  • Use safer alternatives and settings

Key concepts

open networksfake hotspotsmobile dataVPNs

The lesson

Public Wi-Fi in hotels, cafés and airports may be open or shared, and attackers can set up fake hotspots with convincing names.

Prefer mobile data for banking. On public Wi-Fi, use only HTTPS sites, avoid sensitive tasks, and turn off automatic connection to open networks.

A reputable VPN can protect traffic on untrusted networks, but it does not make unsafe sites safe and must itself be trusted.

Step by step

  1. Check your device's auto-join settings.
  2. Forget unneeded saved networks.
  3. Compare mobile data and public Wi-Fi risks.
  4. Write public Wi-Fi rules.

Practice activity

Write public Wi-Fi rules for staff who travel.

Expected result: Practical rules that reduce risk on shared networks.

Check your understanding

  1. What is a fake hotspot?

    Show answer

    A network set up by an attacker with a convincing name.

  2. What should you use for banking when away from home?

    Show answer

    Mobile data rather than public Wi-Fi.

Taught live by an instructor — online or in person. Free course lessons are for self-study and do not lead to a certificate — see registration options.