menu
close
close

Experienced a potential cyberattack or suspicious activity?

What are you looking for?
close
  • published
  • updated

Risks of Public Wi-Fi Networks

Card Image
YouTube Video Cover
CMS Video Cover
Public Wi-Fi networks are open internet connections available in public places, such as cafes, airports, and hotels, which can be exploited by cybercriminals to intercept data or launch attacks.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g9XDewVlaeY
What is it?

Public Wi-Fi networks are open internet connections available in public places, such as cafes, airports, and hotels, which can be exploited by cybercriminals to intercept data or launch attacks.

How it can impact you
  • Data interception: Hackers can capture personal or financial information sent over unsecured networks.
  • Unauthorized access: Attackers can exploit vulnerabilities to access your device.
  • Malware infections: Some public networks may inject malware into connected devices.
  • Man-in-the-middle attacks: Cybercriminals can manipulate communication between your device and the internet to steal or alter data.

Example: A hacker set up a fake "Free Airport Wi-Fi" network and stole login credentials from unsuspecting travelers.

What do you need to do to protect yourself?
  1. Avoid accessing sensitive accounts (e.g., banking, email) while on public Wi-Fi.
  2. Use a Virtual Private Network (VPN) to encrypt your connection.
  3. Turn off automatic Wi-Fi connections on your device.
  4. Verify network legitimacy with staff before connecting to a public Wi-Fi network.
  5. Use mobile data or a personal hotspot instead of public Wi-Fi for sensitive tasks.
Stay Responsible: Follow and Share CSC Content

Your support can make a significant impact in building a secure digital future for everyone:

  1. Staying informed is key to protecting yourself and your loved ones from online threats.
  2. Follow our social media channels and website for regular updates on cybersecurity best practices.
  3. Promote online safety for families, businesses, and the community by spreading this knowledge.
Card Image
Protect yourself
  1. Avoid accessing sensitive accounts (e.g., banking, email) while on public Wi-Fi.
  2. Use a Virtual Private Network (VPN) to encrypt your connection.
  3. Turn off automatic Wi-Fi connections on your device.
  4. Verify network legitimacy with staff before connecting to a public Wi-Fi network.
  5. Use mobile data or a personal hotspot instead of public Wi-Fi for sensitive tasks.

Stay Connected

Follow our channels
Share our posts to keep everyone around you safe
Social Icon Social Icon Social Icon Social Icon Social Icon

Take Action

Spread Awareness

Share awareness articles to help others stay protected and informed about the latest in cybersecurity.

Get Involved

Download Social Pack
Get involved with CSC and play a part in safeguarding the UAE's digital landscape. 

Policies & Resources

Program

news card image
UAE Information Assurance Standard

The UAE Information Assurance (IA) Standard is a nationally recognized framework designed to enhance the security and resilience of critical information infrastructure across the United Arab Emirates.

Informing

Government

Framework

news card image
National Cyber Security Governance Framework

The UAE is investing heavily in cyber security, using technology and skill to combat threat actors in the cyber domain, foster trust and confidence in the UAE’s digital ecosystem, and safeguard its cyberspace.

Informing

Government

Policy

news card image
National Vulnerability Disclosure Policy

The UAE Cyber Security Council's mission is to protect critical systems from vulnerabilities and secure sensitive data of government entities and CIIs from misuse and unauthorized disclosure.

Informing

Government