Tips for Wireless Laptop Users
It’s important to consider security issues whenever you use a Wi-Fi network in a public place. Why? Because a hacker can set up a legitimate-looking Wi-Fi network in a known hotspot, wait for users to connect to it and access sensitive information. They may also use the phony connection to direct users to false webpages in order to gain information that can be used for theft. Connecting to such a Wi-Fi network can result in inadvertently downloading viruses, worms and other malware.
It’s best not to connect to an unknown Wi-Fi network. But if you must, take the following precautions:
Keep your laptop security up to date.
Make sure you have the current versions of your operating system, firewalls, Web browser, and antivirus and antispyware software.
Avoid sensitive transactions.
To reduce your risk of having personal information stolen, don’t conduct financial transactions or use messaging applications.
Adjust your laptop’s default setting.
Set it to prompt you to manually select a Wi-Fi network rather than have one automatically chosen for you.
Turn it off.
Keep your laptop's Wi-Fi capabilities turned off when not in use.