What are the dangers of an unsecured Internet?

The omnipresent Internet has become an everyday occurrence. We use it everywhere, including in public places, where we often connect to Wi-Fi networks without thinking. Such behavior can entail a number of consequences that users often have no idea about. It is therefore worth familiarizing ourselves with the subject of the unsecured Internet.

What do unsecured internet connections mean?

Nowadays, wireless networks are used almost everywhere. It is a convenient and practical solution that allows you to connect a large number of devices. Along with the implementation of this convenience, threats have also appeared both for networks and their users. The greatest risk is posed by public Wi-Fi connections, which are available in many places. Cybercriminals have the ability to place themselves between the Internet user and the connection point – this is the biggest security hole. In fact, no Wi-Fi network is free from threats, but security largely depends on its type. Hackers very often rely on unauthorized access to a wireless network to take control of a connected device, thanks to which they can intercept sensitive data.

Where is the unsecured Internet most common?

Unsecured Internet is most often found in public places, where you can connect to the network without having to enter a password. This includes train stations, airports, restaurants, hotels, universities, libraries, fitness clubs, shopping malls, etc. Unsecured networks can also be found in our homes, less often in companies. Regardless of where it occurs, connecting to the Internet can result in more or less serious consequences.

What are the risks of connecting to an unsecured internet?

Any connection to an unsecured network is associated with risk. This is a great opportunity for cybercriminals, who will certainly take advantage of the opportunity. Among the most common consequences are Man-in-the-Middle attacks. Hackers can intercept communication between the Wi-Fi network and the device. In this way, they can eavesdrop on online activity, steal confidential information such as passwords, and manipulate transmitted data. This applies to both individual users and businesses. Hackers can also install malware on the device, record images and/or sound using the built-in camera and microphone, and record all activity.

Check: Cybersecurity – how to use the network safely?

Another common threat is cybercriminals changing DNS addresses used by the router. This is intended to redirect the user to substituted sites that look like real ones, e.g. a bank website. As a result, hackers intercept login data and passwords. An unsecured network can also result in legal consequences. The Internet can be used by hackers to download illegal content, which causes disruptions in the operation of computers. Additionally, an unsecured Internet can be used to publish offensive content. The owner of the network is responsible for these actions and is the one who is liable for criminal charges. Importantly, the person being attacked is usually unaware of what is happening.

How to avoid the dangers of an unsecured Internet?

It is crucial to be especially careful when connecting to an unknown network. Public Wi-Fi is not always adequately protected. First, you should disable the option of automatic connection to an available network on all your devices. This solution allows you to maintain full control over your phone or laptop. It is important to use open Wi-Fi networks only when absolutely necessary. Another important step is to use a VPN after connecting to public Wi-Fi. It encrypts all data sent and received, including all browsing activity, so that no one can read it. It is worth remembering to be vigilant when using sites that are not marked with a characteristic padlock in the case of an address, i.e. not to provide any data. It is also crucial not to connect to random networks.

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The wide availability of public Wi-Fi networks is both a great convenience and a real threat that cannot be ignored. Knowing the potential risks associated with an unsecured internet is crucial to protecting your data and yourself. It is therefore important to regularly update your devices, use a VPN and avoid logging into online banking, email or social media accounts. Any connection to a public network should be done with extreme caution.

See also: Computer security – how to effectively avoid a cyberattack?