The 3 public Wi-Fi networks you should avoid if you don't want your bank password stolen

In Colombia, public Wi-Fi networks have become a common tool for accessing the internet for free in places like coffee shops, shopping malls, and airports. However, their use can expose users to significant risks, especially when conducting online banking transactions.

According to cybersecurity and artificial intelligence specialists, there are three types of public networks that pose a high risk to your banking information: 1) Open networks without passwords: those that allow you to connect without any type of authentication. These networks are often easily impersonated by cybercriminals to intercept sensitive data.

2) Networks with suspicious or duplicate names (“Evil Twin”): These are networks that imitate legitimate ones, such as those of a cafe or airport, to deceive users and steal passwords or financial information.

3) Uncontrolled public networks in crowded locations: airports, stations, or shopping malls where many devices connect simultaneously and network security is unmonitored, increasing vulnerability to man-in-the-middle attacks or other digital espionage methods. These networks should be avoided when conducting banking transactions or entering sensitive data, and it is always a good idea to opt for secure connections, use VPNs, and use two-factor authentication.

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According to a recent Kaspersky study, 21% of Colombians connect their devices to public Wi-Fi networks without verifying their security. This behavior increases their exposure to cyberattacks, as public networks can easily be impersonated to intercept sensitive data.

In recent years, there has been a significant increase in various types of cyberattacks, such as "man-in-the-middle" attacks, where attackers intercept communications between the user and the server, or "evil twin" attacks, where a fake network is created with a name similar to a legitimate one to deceive users. These attacks can result in the theft of banking credentials, passwords, and other personal information.

In this context, cybersecurity experts warn about the vulnerabilities inherent in these open networks and recommend taking precautions to protect personal and financial information.

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Tips to protect your information on public Wi-Fi networks

To minimize risks, the specialized site Wesnet advises adopting the following recommendations:

• Verify the network before connecting: Confirm the access point name with the site staff and avoid connecting to open networks without a password.

• Turn off auto-connect: Set your device to not automatically join public networks.

• Use a VPN (Virtual Private Network): Encrypt your internet traffic and hide your location, making it difficult for third parties to spy on your activity.

• Activate your firewall and keep your devices updated: Strengthen protection against hacking attempts and vulnerabilities.

• Use antivirus and antispyware : Help detect and block malware in real time.

• Avoid accessing sensitive accounts: Don't access your online banking or confidential emails when you're on public networks.

• Forget the network when you're done: Clear the settings on your device and turn off Wi-Fi or Bluetooth if you don't need them.

• Enable multi-factor authentication (MFA): Add an extra layer of security to your accounts.

These simple practices can significantly reduce the risk of data theft and keep your personal information protected when browsing in public spaces.