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A trip to any major cybersecurity conference reveals vendors promoting the latest, cutting-edge cybersecurity solutions, and many people willing to pay top dollar for them. But a closer look shows that the average user, and even some small businesses, are being left behind.

The majority of cybersecurity tools are created for the industry itself, which only exacerbates the cybersecurity skills shortage that’s been going on for years. Many of these solutions are so complex that a cybersecurity staff needs years of experience and expertise to operate them. Small businesses are at a significant disadvantage here, which only increases their security risk. The expertise required also creates a higher barrier to entry for cybersecurity jobs. It’s similar to a drugstore offering only prescription medications when most customers need over-the-counter (OTC) options.

As demand grows for constant connectivity to the digital world, offering free Wi-Fi has become as essential for restaurants and retail stores as providing quality products and exceptional service. Customers increasingly expect to stay connected wherever they go, and the availability of Wi-Fi in restaurants, shopping malls, and retail outlets significantly influences their choice of where to dine and shop. For businesses, providing in-store Wi-Fi not only enhances the customer experience but also opens up opportunities for increased engagement, longer dwell times, and ultimately, higher sales.

However, the convenience of offering guest Wi-Fi comes with its own set of challenges. IT professionals must balance the need to deliver fast and reliable Internet access with the imperative of maintaining robust network security. Unsecured Wi-Fi networks can expose both customers and businesses to significant risks, including data breaches, malware infections, and legal complications arising from non-compliance with data protection regulations.

This article provides actionable insights for IT professionals on implementing secure guest Wi-Fi solutions in retail and restaurant environments. By leveraging DNS filtering and adopting best practices in network management, businesses can offer the seamless Internet experience that customers demand while simultaneously protecting their own interests.

Why Customers Demand Wi-Fi in Retail and Restaurants

Influence on Foot Traffic

The availability of Wi-Fi in restaurants and retail stores has a direct impact on foot traffic. In an era where staying connected is a priority, customers often choose venues based on whether they offer free Internet access. According to recent surveys, a significant percentage of diners and shoppers consider Wi-Fi availability a deciding factor when selecting a restaurant or shopping destination. Providing Wi-Fi in-store not only attracts more customers but also enhances their overall experience, making them more likely to return.

Enhancing the Shopping Experience

In-store Wi-Fi enables customers to engage in real-time comparison shopping, access product information, and read reviews, all of which contribute to informed purchasing decisions. For retailers, this means that offering Wi-Fi can keep customers engaged longer, increasing the likelihood of a sale. Additionally, customers use Wi-Fi to access digital services such as loyalty apps and virtual wallets, streamlining transactions and fostering brand loyalty. Restaurants benefit by allowing patrons to browse menus, place orders, or share their experiences on social media, amplifying marketing efforts.

Increased Dwell Time and Sales Potential

Providing Wi-Fi in stores encourages customers to spend more time on the premises. Whether they’re browsing products, enjoying a meal, or simply taking a break, the extended dwell time can lead to increased spending. For businesses, this translates to higher sales and better customer engagement. Moreover, positive experiences with in-store Wi-Fi can enhance the brand’s reputation, attracting new customers through word-of-mouth and online reviews.

Risks Associated with Offering Guest Wi-Fi

Security Threats

While offering guest Wi-Fi solutions meets customer expectations, it also introduces potential security threats. Unsecured networks can serve as entry points for cybercriminals seeking to access sensitive customer information or the business’s internal systems. Data breaches can result in the loss of confidential data, financial losses, and damage to the company’s reputation. Malware infections are another significant risk; malicious software can spread through unsecured Wi-Fi networks, affecting both customer devices and corporate infrastructure.

Legal and Compliance Issues

Businesses providing guest Wi-Fi must comply with various data protection laws and regulations, such as the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA). Non-compliance can lead to hefty fines, legal action, and loss of customer trust. IT professionals must ensure that appropriate measures are in place to protect user data and that privacy policies are transparent and accessible.

Balancing Accessibility and Security

One of the main challenges for IT professionals is striking the right balance between providing easy-to-use Wi-Fi services and maintaining robust security protocols. Overly restrictive security measures can hinder the user experience, discouraging customers from using the service. On the other hand, lax security can expose the network to vulnerabilities. Achieving this balance requires careful planning and the implementation of best practices tailored to the specific needs of retail and restaurant environments.

Implementing Secure Guest Wi-Fi Solutions

To mitigate the risks associated with offering guest Wi-Fi, IT professionals should adopt a multi-layered approach to network security. The following strategies provide a framework for implementing secure and user-friendly Wi-Fi solutions in retail and restaurant settings.

Separate Guest and Internal Networks

Segregating the guest Wi-Fi network from the internal business network is a fundamental step in protecting sensitive data. By using Virtual Local Area Networks (VLANs) or separate physical networks, businesses can ensure that guests have Internet access without the ability to interact with internal systems. Network segmentation reduces the attack surface and prevents unauthorized access to confidential information, point-of-sale systems, and other critical infrastructure.

Implementing network segmentation in your retail wireless setup enhances security by isolating potential threats. It also improves network performance, as guest traffic is separated from business-critical applications. Retail network services can be optimized to prioritize internal operations while still providing reliable wifi in store for customers.

Use of Captive Portals

Implementing captive portals adds a layer of security by requiring users to authenticate before accessing the Wi-Fi network. Captive portals can display terms of service and privacy policies, ensuring that users are aware of acceptable use policies. Authentication methods can include simple password entry, social media logins, or more secure options like SMS verification. Collecting minimal user data during this process helps maintain compliance with privacy regulations.

Password Management

Regularly updating Wi-Fi passwords or using dynamic credentials prevents unauthorized long-term access. Voucher systems or unique login credentials for each user session can enhance security without significantly impacting user convenience. These measures are particularly important for retail wifi providers aiming to offer secure guest wifi solutions.

Up-to-Date Encryption Standards

Employing the latest Wi-Fi encryption protocols, such as Wi-Fi Protected Access 3 (WPA3), is crucial for safeguarding data transmitted over the network. WPA3 provides enhanced security features that protect against common threats like brute-force attacks and eavesdropping. Additionally, configuring network devices to disable outdated and less secure protocols prevents attackers from exploiting known vulnerabilities.

Firewall Implementation

Firewalls serve as a barrier between the internal network and external threats. Configuring firewalls to monitor and control incoming and outgoing network traffic helps prevent unauthorized access and can block malicious activities. Implementing intrusion detection and prevention systems (IDPS) further enhances network security by identifying and responding to suspicious behavior in real-time.

Firmware and Software Updates

Keeping all network devices, including routers, access points, and servers, up to date with the latest firmware and software patches is essential. Updates often include fixes for security vulnerabilities that could be exploited by attackers. Establishing a routine update schedule or enabling automatic updates where possible ensures that devices are protected against the latest threats.

Network Monitoring Tools

Utilizing network monitoring tools allows IT professionals to oversee network performance and detect anomalies that may indicate security incidents. Real-time monitoring provides visibility into network traffic patterns, user activity, and potential vulnerabilities. Alerts can be set up to notify administrators of unusual activities, enabling swift response to potential threats.

The Crucial Role of DNS Filtering

What is DNS Filtering?

DNS filtering is a security measure that blocks access to malicious or unwanted websites by filtering Domain Name System (DNS) requests. When a user attempts to visit a website, their device queries a DNS server to translate the human-readable domain name into an IP address. DNS filtering intercepts these queries and checks them against a database of known threats or prohibited content. If the requested domain is flagged, the DNS filter prevents the connection, protecting users from potential harm.

Benefits of DNS Filtering

  • Threat Prevention
    DNS filtering enhances network security by preventing access to phishing sites, malware distribution networks, and other malicious domains. By blocking these threats at the DNS level, businesses can protect both their customers and internal systems from cyberattacks. This is particularly important for guest Wi-Fi solutions in retail and restaurant environments, where numerous devices connect daily.
  • Content Control
    Maintaining a family-friendly atmosphere is crucial for businesses like restaurants and retail stores. DNS filtering allows you to restrict access to inappropriate or illegal content, such as adult websites or sites promoting illegal activities. This not only safeguards your brand reputation but also ensures compliance with legal regulations regarding public Internet access.
  • Improved Network Performance
    By filtering out high-bandwidth sites like streaming services or large file-sharing platforms, DNS filtering can help optimize network performance. This ensures that all customers enjoy a fast and reliable wireless connection in your store, enhancing their overall experience.

Steps for IT Professionals to Secure In-Store Wi-Fi with DNS Filtering

Securing your in-store Wi-Fi network involves a combination of best practices and the strategic implementation of DNS filtering. Here are the key steps for IT professionals:

Step 1: Assess Your Current Network Infrastructure

Conduct a comprehensive audit of your existing network setup. Identify potential vulnerabilities, outdated hardware, or software that may not support advanced security features like DNS filtering or the latest encryption standards.

Step 2: Plan Your Security Enhancements

Develop a clear plan that outlines the security measures to be implemented. This plan should include:

  • Network Segmentation
    Ensure that your guest Wi-Fi is isolated from internal networks using VLANs or separate physical networks.
  • Authentication and Access Control
    Decide on authentication methods, such as captive portals, to manage user access effectively.
  • Encryption Protocols
    Upgrade to WPA3 encryption to secure wireless communications.
  • DNS Filtering Integration
    Choose a DNS filtering solution like DNSFilter and plan its deployment across your network devices.

Step 3: Implement DNS Filtering

  • Configure DNS Settings
    Update the DNS settings on all network devices to use your chosen DNS filtering service. This step ensures that all DNS queries are filtered according to your security policies.
  • Set Filtering Policies
    Customize the filtering settings to block malicious domains and inappropriate content. Tailor these policies to fit the specific needs of your retail or restaurant environment.

Step 4: Update Firmware and Software

Ensure all routers, access points, and network management tools are updated to the latest firmware and software versions. Regular updates patch security vulnerabilities and improve device performance.

Step 5: Monitor Network Activity

  • Deploy Monitoring Tools
    Use network monitoring solutions to track usage patterns, detect anomalies, and receive alerts about potential security incidents.
  • Review DNS Filtering Reports
    Regularly analyze reports from your DNS filtering service to understand what threats are being blocked and adjust policies as needed.

Step 6: Educate Staff and Users

  • Employee Training
    Train your staff on the importance of network security and how to respond to potential issues. Ensure they understand the role of DNS filtering in protecting the network.
  • User Communication
    Inform customers about the availability of secure Wi-Fi and any usage policies. Clear communication enhances trust and encourages responsible use.

Step 7: Maintain Compliance

  • Privacy Policies
    Update your privacy policies to reflect data handling practices and ensure they comply with regulations like GDPR or CCPA.
  • Acceptable Use Policies
    Establish and enforce acceptable use policies to prevent illegal or harmful activities on your network.

Implementing DNS filtering as part of a comprehensive security strategy protects both the business and its customers from evolving cyber threats.

In an age where connectivity is a crucial part of daily life, offering free Wi-Fi in retail and restaurant settings is essential for meeting customer expectations and staying competitive. However, this service must not come at the expense of security. IT professionals play a vital role in ensuring that the guest Wi-Fi solutions provided are both user-friendly and secure.

DNS filtering is a powerful tool in the arsenal of network security measures. By blocking access to malicious and inappropriate websites at the DNS level, it offers a proactive approach to threat prevention without hindering the user experience. When combined with strategies like network segmentation, strong authentication, up-to-date encryption, and continuous monitoring, DNS filtering helps create a robust security framework for retail wireless networks. Try DNSFilter free for 14 days.

Is your company’s Wi-Fi network inadvertently opening doors to cyber threats? Are employees and visitors putting company data at risk every time they connect their personal devices? With over 60% of data breaches linked to unsecured network access, understanding your Wi-Fi setup has never been more critical.

The convenience of wireless connectivity has blurred the lines between accessibility and security, making it essential for businesses to differentiate between guest Wi-Fi, regular Wi-Fi, and public Wi-Fi to protect sensitive information.

This article explores the differences between these types of networks, the risks associated with public Wi-Fi, the advantages of implementing guest Wi-Fi, and practical steps to safeguard your business. We’ll delve into how choosing the right Wi-Fi setup can enhance user experience while maintaining robust security measures.

Defining Guest Wi-Fi, Regular Wi-Fi, and Public Wi-Fi

What is Regular Wi-Fi?

Regular Wi-Fi refers to the primary wireless network used internally by a company’s employees. It provides access to internal resources, applications, and sensitive company data. Security measures typically include strong encryption protocols like WPA3 and authentication methods such as WPA2-Enterprise. Access is restricted to authorized personnel, making this network critical for daily business operations and requiring robust protection against unauthorized access.

What is Guest Wi-Fi?

Guest Wi-Fi is a separate network provided by businesses for visitors and employees’ personal devices. It requires authentication, such as a password or login credentials, but is segregated from the company’s regular Wi-Fi network. This segregation ensures that guests cannot access internal resources or sensitive data. Guest Wi-Fi protection includes encryption, authentication, and the implementation of Wi-Fi filters to control access and monitor usage, enhancing overall network security.

What is Public Wi-Fi?

Public Wi-Fi refers to open networks accessible to anyone within range, commonly found in public spaces like airports, cafes, and parks. These networks are typically unencrypted and unsecured, lacking authentication requirements. Public Wi-Fi protection is minimal, making them vulnerable to cyber threats such as man-in-the-middle attacks, data interception, and malware distribution.

Guest or Public Networks–Which is Safer?

Guest networks are safer due to controlled access and enhanced security measures, reducing the risk of data breaches and cyber attacks.Guest Wi-Fi includes security features like encryption and authentication, while public Wi-Fi lacks these protections.

Guest Wi-Fi vs. Public Wi-Fi Comparison

Use Case/Application Guest Wi-Fi Public Wi-Fi
Internet Browsing ✔️ Common in offices, hotels ✔️ Common in cafes, parks
Email Access ✔️ Professional environments ✔️ Public venues, airports
Social Media ✔️ Hotels, waiting areas ✔️ Cafes, public squares
Online Shopping ✔️ Retail stores, showrooms ✔️ Shopping malls
Communication Apps ✔️ Conference centers ✔️ Travel hubs
Basic Work Tasks ✔️ Business meetings ✔️ Libraries, educational institutions
Security Level ✔️ High (password-protected) ❌ Low (open access)
User Authentication ✔️ Requires password/credentials Open access, login page
Access Restrictions ✔️ Restricted (content control) ❌ Minimal restrictions
Network Traffic Management ✔️ Controlled, limited users ❌ Open, high traffic
Usage Policies ✔️ Defined by host ❌ Broad access policies
Device Support ✔️ Limited number of devices ❌ Designed for many devices
Purpose ✔️ Visitor use in businesses ❌ Public access in communal areas
Network Isolation ✔️ Isolated from internal network ❌ Single network (no isolation)
Best For ✔️ Corporate offices, hotels, healthcare, professional services Airports, parks, malls, cafes, public libraries

 

The Risks of Public Wi-Fi

Public Wi-Fi networks are ubiquitous, offering convenient internet access in places like airports, cafes, hotels, and parks. Designed to prioritize ease of access, public Wi-Fi typically allows anyone within range to connect with minimal barriers. While this accessibility is undeniably convenient, it comes at the cost of security. Public Wi-Fi networks often lack robust protective measures, making them prime targets for cyber threats. Understanding the risks associated with public Wi-Fi is essential for both users and providers to protect sensitive data and maintain network integrity.

Lack of Encryption and Authentication

Public Wi-Fi networks are typically open and unencrypted, meaning data transmitted over these networks is not secured. Without encryption, any information sent or received—such as emails, passwords, or financial details—can be intercepted by malicious actors using simple tools.

Man-in-the-Middle Attacks

One of the most common threats on public Wi-Fi is the man-in-the-middle (MITM) attack. In this scenario, a hacker intercepts communication between the user and the internet, potentially altering or stealing sensitive data without the user’s knowledge.

Rogue Hotspots and Evil Twin Attacks

Cybercriminals may set up rogue hotspots or “evil twin” networks that mimic legitimate public Wi-Fi networks. Unsuspecting users connect to these fake networks, inadvertently giving attackers access to their devices and data.

Malware Distribution

Unsecured networks can be used to distribute malware. Hackers can exploit vulnerabilities in a user’s device to install malicious software, which can lead to data theft, device hijacking, or inclusion in a botnet for larger-scale attacks.

What are the main challenges of protecting Public Wi-Fi?
Difficulty to Implement Security 

Public Wi-Fi providers often prioritize accessibility over security. Implementing strong security measures can complicate the user experience, potentially deterring customers from using the service.

Users Unaware

Many users are unaware of the risks associated with public Wi-Fi. They may not use Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) or other protective measures, leaving their devices and data exposed.

Limited Resources

Smaller businesses offering public Wi-Fi might lack the resources or expertise to implement advanced security protocols, making their networks particularly vulnerable to exploitation.

 

The Advantages of Guest Wi-Fi

In contrast to public Wi-Fi, guest Wi-Fi offers a secure and controlled environment for both businesses and users. Implementing a guest Wi-Fi network can significantly reduce security risks while enhancing user experience. Here’s how guest Wi-Fi stands out as a superior option for protecting your network and data.

The Advantages of Guest Wi-Fi Protections
Enhanced Security Measures

Guest Wi-Fi networks are designed with security in mind. By creating a separate network for guests and employee personal devices, businesses can isolate their main internal network from potential threats. This network segmentation ensures that even if the guest network is compromised, sensitive company data and systems remain protected.

Use of Encryption and Authentication

Guest networks typically employ strong encryption protocols like WPA3, ensuring that data transmitted over the network is secure. Requiring users to authenticate— whether through a password, voucher system, or captive portal—adds an additional layer of security by preventing unauthorized access.

Implementation of Wi-Fi Filters and Firewalls

Wi-Fi filters can block access to malicious websites and restrict the download of harmful files. Firewalls monitor incoming and outgoing network traffic based on predetermined security rules, acting as a barrier between secure internal networks and untrusted external networks such as the internet.

 

Control and Customization with Wi-Fi Filters

Content Filtering

Businesses can use Wi-Fi filters to manage the type of content accessible over their guest network. This includes blocking sites that are inappropriate or pose security risks, such as those containing malware or phishing schemes. Content filtering not only enhances security but also helps maintain a professional environment.

User Policies and Network Monitoring

Implementing user policies allows businesses to define acceptable use of the guest network. Policies can limit bandwidth per user, restrict certain types of traffic (like streaming or peer-to-peer sharing), and set time limits for access. Network monitoring tools provide real-time insights into network usage, helping administrators identify and address unusual activity promptly.

Device Management

Advanced guest Wi-Fi systems enable businesses to manage connected devices actively. They can detect unauthorized devices, enforce compliance checks, and even push security updates or restrictions to ensure all connected devices meet the company’s security standards.

TL;DR

In today’s interconnected world, providing Wi-Fi access is a necessity for businesses across various industries. However, this convenience comes with the responsibility to protect company data and user information from constant cyber threats. Understanding the differences between guest Wi-Fi, regular Wi-Fi, and public Wi-Fi is crucial for making informed decisions about network security.

Today, public Wi-Fi is table stakes for the hospitality industry. Guests expect to have quality, free Wi-Fi at any hotel they go to. In fact, a recent study from Hospitality Technology magazine found that Wi-Fi is the number one amenity; respondents said they would not return to a location that offered a poor Wi-Fi experience.

That means a great Wi-Fi experience can become a differentiator, especially to business customers who rely on Wi-Fi to get their work done while on the road. Some hotels are going so far as to install tablets in each room to detect the health of the room’s Wi-Fi signal. And at least one major hotel chain has introduced secure Wi-Fi auto-connect (after a one-time set-up process).

However, though Wi-Fi is a modern hospitality requirement, it also creates security risks. If a public Wi-Fi network is unsecured or poorly secured, staff and guests are vulnerable to financial fraud, identity theft, data breaches and other cyber risks. It’s critical for hotels and resorts to get Wi-Fi security right so that guests keep coming back – and so that these facilities don’t suffer from damaging breaches.

While public Wi-FI can be very convenient, both for users and providers, it also introduces a number of security challenges. Unsecured or under-secured public Wi-Fi networks can expose users to cyber threats like identity theft, financial fraud and data breaches. Once they are connected, attackers can monitor all traffic, extract sensitive data, and even inject and spread malware.

DNS queries are fundamental to the functionality of the internet; every time you access a website, you’re sending a DNS query. Some of these can be malicious. In fact, an average internet user might access as many as 5,000 DNS queries a day and up to five of those might be malicious. That’s equivalent to 1,825 incidents per year. A malicious query can be a wide range of activities, from phishing to ransomware to cryptojacking. Often, these queries take the form of redirecting traffic from a legitimate website to a similarly named malicious website.

This brings up a quandary: Today, offering public Wi-Fi is table stakes for places like hotels, airports and even restaurants. For these businesses, providing this service is part of the customer experience. Going to a hotel and discovering they don’t offer free public Wi-Fi is almost shocking. However, it comes with risks. Research from OnePoll found that public Wi-Fi at restaurants and cafes accounted for 25% of all personal data compromise, with airports at 23% and hotels at 20%.

The easy solution is to just not offer this service, but from a business standpoint, that’s not realistic. Ensuring you can provide safe, secure public Wi-Fi can protect your company and your customers. It can even become a competitive differentiator.

How do you do this? It starts with understanding the threats to these networks, with enough context that you can understand the most effective and affordable solution. It’s also key to understand some of the best practices to follow to keep public Wi-Fi use safe for your business and your end-users.

Exploiting public Wi-Fi vulnerabilities

Public Wi-Fi networks have vulnerabilities that leave organizations open to many threats that can result in data breaches, theft of customer data and possible financial losses. To make these networks secure, organizations need to understand their many risks.

These are some of the biggest public Wi-Fi network threats:

  • Malware: Malicious software comes in many varieties; its aim is to sneak onto or damage a network.
  • Ransomware: This kind of malware encrypts an organization’s files and requires a ransom to decrypt that data.
  • Man-in-the-Middle (MitM) attacks: Hackers tap into two parties’ communication and either listen in or change the data they are transmitting.
  • Advanced Persistent Threats (APTs): APTs occur when attackers sneak onto a network and exfiltrate data over time. They get into a device while a user is accessing a public network and then persist their access when the user gets back on the corporate network to expand their undetected access.

Five best practices for Wi-Fi security

There are proactive steps organizations can take to secure their public Wi-Fi. These steps create the foundation for a holistic security strategy to keep the network resistant to data breaches and an array of cyberattacks, and to keep customer data safe.

One step is to implement encryption standards.Use WPA3 for Wi-Fi networks or other robust encryption protocols to make sure that data sent via the network is encrypted. That makes data interception difficult for attackers.

Another step is web content filtering, which is crucial in blocking access to malicious content and sites that might jeopardize the Wi-Fi network’s security. Organizations can substantially lower their risk of breaches introduced via web browsing by filtering out phishing URLs and other known malicious sites and categories of sites that usually disseminate malware.

Installing firewalls is important, too, because they form a barricade between the internet and the public Wi-Fi network. They use predetermined security rules to observe traffic in both directions. If they are configured right, firewalls are good at preventing unauthorized access and some kinds of attacks.

Another step is to disable file sharing. This feature can be highly risky on public networks because it could let attackers directly access sensitive data or install malware. It involves turning off Bluetooth discovery and anything else that’s not essential. This helps make the attack surface as small as possible.

Finally, useVirtual Private Networks.They make encrypted tunnels that enable data to securely and privately pass between the network and the user. Mandating use of VPNs for those using public Wi-Fi will help safeguard data from hackers trying to grab sensitive data.

A secure experience for all

Public and guest Wi-Fi is a key service for today’s businesses (and other institutions) but these services represent massive risk as well. Public Wi-Fi must meet the same cybersecurity standards of any other business system. Many network threats lie in wait, and attacks continue to increase in sophistication and volume. Check the list of Wi-Fi security best practices noted above against your current practices, adjust and upgrade as needed. This will ensure a safe experience for your users and your network.

Q: What are the primary risks associated with unsecured Wi-Fi networks?

CL: The biggest risk with unsecured Wi-Fi networks is the lack of encryption. When you connect to an unsecured network, anyone else on that network can easily intercept the data you’re sending or receiving. This includes personal and financial information, which can further lead to identity theft and other types of fraud.

Q: What methods do attackers use to exploit these vulnerabilities?

CL: Attackers use a number of tools to exploit these vulnerabilities. One common method involves devices known as Pineapples. These devices can mimic legitimate Wi-Fi networks, tricking devices into connecting to them instead of the genuine network. Once they are connected, attackers can monitor all traffic, extract sensitive data, and even inject and spread malware.

Q: How can individuals and organizations protect themselves from such attacks?

CL: To protect against these types of attacks, it’s important to use secure Wi-Fi protocols that include encryption, like the ones offered by modern Wi-Fi standards such as Wi-Fi 6 and 7. Additionally, individuals should be extremely careful about connecting to public Wi-Fi networks without using a VPN to encrypt their data. For organizations, implementing strong network security measures, training, and educating the employees about the risks and how to avoid them is crucial.

Q: Can you suggest any best practices for using public Wi-Fi safely?

CL: Always verify the network name with the establishment providing the Wi-Fi. This avoids any chance of connecting to mimic networks set up by attackers. Using a VPN is a must when connecting to public Wi-Fi as it encrypts your internet traffic, making it more difficult for anyone else on the network to see what you’re doing or steal your information without your knowledge. Also, keeping your device’s software and security features up to date is critical in protecting against the latest threats.

Wi-Fi networks provide valuable connectivity. At the same time, they come with significant security risks that should not be underestimated. Hear more from this interview with DNSFilter’s Carl Levine about the security of public Wi-Fi in the replay of Why Securing Public Wi-Fi is More Important Than Ever.