By Tolulope Oyewumi
In Nigeria, public wi-fi networks have become a staple in our daily lives, providing easy internet access in public spaces. However, while public wi-fi offers convenience, it also poses significant threats to data security. Cybercriminals exploit public wi-fi networks to intercept sensitive information, putting personal data and online identities at risk.
Public wi-fi networks lack encryption and security measures, making them vulnerable to hacking. When connecting to public wi-fi, data is transmitted over an unsecured connection, making it easy for hackers to intercept sensitive information, including login credentials, debit card numbers, personal information, and business data.
One of the significant risks of using public wi-fi is man-in-the-middle attacks, where hackers intercept data transmitted over the network, stealing sensitive information or injecting malware into devices. Cybercriminals can also use software to capture data packets transmitted over the network, accessing personal information through a process known as sniffing. Additionally, hackers can inject malware into devices, giving them remote access, and scammers can set up fake wi-fi hotspots that mimic legitimate networks, intercepting data and stealing login credentials.
To protect data on public wi-fi, necessary precautions must be taken. Using a Virtual Private Network (VPN) is an effective way to secure data, as it encrypts internet traffic, making it difficult for hackers to intercept. Enabling two-factor authentication adds an extra layer of security, requiring a second form of verification to access accounts. It is also crucial to ensure that websites visited have a secure connection (indicated by “https” in the URL) and to refrain from accessing sensitive information, such as financial data or personal information, while using public wi-fi.
While public wi-fi offers convenience, it poses significant risks to data security. By understanding these risks and taking necessary precautions, Nigerians can reduce the risk of data compromise and protect their personal information.