NEVER CONNECT TO A PUBLIC WIFI

Learn from my Pain

Can You Get Hacked Using Public Wi-Fi?

The short answer is yes, you can get hacked using public Wi-Fi.

Cybercriminals use a combination of technical know-how and free tools to sneak into unsecured networks and steal sensitive information. This could include passwords, banking information, or personal data that can be used for identity theft.

Here’s how public Wi-Fi networks get hacked:

“Evil twin” attack. Hackers set up malicious hotspots with seemingly trustworthy names (e.g. “Cafe free Wi-Fi”). When you connect, they can easily intercept your data.

Man-in-the-middle attack (MitM). Bad actors break into a network and eavesdrop on data as it travels between connected devices and the Wi-Fi router. For example, as you enter your password into your online bank account.

Password cracking attack. Scammers use software that automatically tries a huge volume of usernames and passwords to unlock a router’s management interface.

Packet sniffing attack. Malicious hackers capture data units sent across unsecured Wi-Fi.

Then, they unpack the data to extract individual login credentials or financial information.

Security vulnerabilities and/or misconfigurations.

Sometimes default router settings allow cybercriminals to log in as an administrator, or plant malicious software on compromised devices.