How To Keep Your WI-FI Connection Secured When Road Tripping
In the modern world, the internet has become a necessity. Almost all devices have internet connection. Unlike in the past, it is no longer limited to the tech savvy. Unfortunately, the improved access comes with its own set of problems.
Without proper safety measures, you can fall prey to malicious people. When planning for a road trip, the security of your Wi-Fi may be the last thing on your mind. However, taking care of it can save you a lot of trouble. Keep reading to learn about simple tips to secure your Wi-Fi connection while on the road.
1. Change the Default Name
The first step towards a secure Wi-Fi connection is changing your service set identifier (SSID). Basically, it is the network name set on default by manufacturers. When a device with Wi-Fi connection is searching for and displaying wireless networks, it gives a list of all networks with public SSIDs. Therefore, hackers will have no trouble getting into your network.
Even though changing your SSID may not offer you complete protection, it improves your Wi-Fi safety. Use something that doesn’t show any of your personal details.
Changing your default password may be helpful as well. Do not keep using the password that providers assigned you. If hackers manage to get into your network, they may change the password and lock you out.
2. Security Check-Ups
Consider doing a security check of your device as you prepare to leave. While you pack, do your research, and make other travel plans, prepare your devices for the road trip too. If you haven’t updated the settings or security software in a long time, you aren’t safe no matter the Wi-Fi you will be using.
Ensure that all your phones, tablets, and computes have updated software. This is especially important for the software that relates to your security. When doing your security checks, one of the most important things to keep in mind is the strength of your passwords. If you will be using social networks while on the road, ensure that your passwords include numbers, letters, and characters. They should be unique with at least eight characters.
3. Use VPNs
Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) are groups of computers working together over the internet. You can use various types of VPN to secure and encrypt your information. When unsure of the right VPN for your needs, a VPN trial may help. You get the chance to try out a VPN service before risking your money. If you aren’t satisfied, you can cancel and try a different option.
Once you have connected to a VPN, a client will be launched on your device. After logging in and entering your credentials, your device will exchange keys with a different server. If both computers find each other to be authentic, all your communications will be encrypted making you safe from outside prying. Ensure that your devices have software to protect you against spyware and viruses.
4. Avoid Shady Links and Emails
If something seems too good to be true, it probably is. While you are relaxed and looking for ways to pass time or catch up on your emails, you are likely to let your guard down. Letting your guard down makes you vulnerable to hackers and other cyber criminals.
The danger is especially high during important events like the Super Bowl and World Cup. Beware of VIP seating upgrades, free tickets, and FIFA lotteries. Even the most legit-looking emails can be fake. You are unlikely to notice them while you are out on the road. Phishing attacks have become common and protecting yourself is always a good idea. When using your Wi-Fi, avoid replying to suspicious emails or clicking on unknown links. If something seems fishy, it probably is.
5. Always Double-Check Networks
A common mistake that many travelers make using Wi-Fi is failing to double-check their network before joining. If you join the wrong network, you may be the victim of hackers and other cyber criminals. Hackers like mimicking legitimate networks.
They know that you are likely to join them. They may create a network whose name is similar to yours or try luring you with promises of ‘free Wi-Fi.’ If you stop at a café or hotel, ask a member of staff for their official network. Do not use it if it isn’t locked with a strong password.
6. Use Network Encryption
Turn on network encryption to secure your Wi-Fi connection. Encryption is one of the best ways to safeguard your network and data. It functions by scrambling your message and data to ensure that hackers cannot decipher it.
While there are many types of encryption, WPA2 is the most common one. However, it may not be compatible with older devices. You can find out if your router is compatible with WPA2 by checking the network settings. Pick the best encryption method for your needs.
7. Mac Filtering
Whether you are using Wi-Fi on a laptop or mobile device, you can protect your connection through mac filtering. Wireless devices come with unique MAC addresses and it doesn’t have anything to do with Apple MAC. Consider adding your devices’ MAC addresses to the wireless router settings for an extra layer of protection. That way, unspecified devices cannot connect to your network.
These addresses are hard-coded to networking equipment. That way, two equipment cannot share the same address. Even though you can spoof a MAC address, attackers would need to know one of your devices’ addresses to try spoofing.
8. Avoid Using Your Wi-Fi
Where possible, do not use your own Wi-Fi. While travelling, you are likely to access lots of free and reliable Wi-Fi. If you choose to use public Wi-Fi, nothing is more important than your privacy and security.
If in doubt, avoid logging on and use mobile data instead. Your smartphone can act as Wi-Fi hotspot for other devices. Even though it isn’t free, you can be sure that your connection is safe. You can get free public Wi-Fi at hotels, gyms, local parks, bookstores, and reputable train stations.