Do you ever connect to café, airport or hotel Wi-Fi to get work done?
It might feel harmless, but those networks are one of the easiest ways for cyber criminals to steal your data. If you’re logging in to work systems on public Wi-Fi, you could be putting both your personal information and your company’s data at risk.
The hidden dangers of public Wi-Fi.
Public Wi-Fi is open by design. Even with a password, it only controls who can join – it doesn’t encrypt your data. Anyone on the same network can use basic tools to intercept your activity, steal logins or install malware without you noticing.
Private networks like home or office Wi-Fi use encryption and unique credentials, making them far more secure than public connections.
The risks you face:
It’s not just about your device. Once a hacker has access, they can use your connection to reach sensitive company information – client files, financial records or internal systems. Avoiding public Wi-Fi is one of the simplest ways you can protect yourself and your company data. Think of it as shutting the door on an easy win for cyber criminals.
1. Man-in-the-middle attacks.
Hackers can intercept the traffic between your laptop or phone and the internet, capturing logins, emails and files without you knowing.
2. Fake Wi-Fi hotspots.
Criminals can create lookalike networks with names like “Free Airport Wi-Fi.” If you connect, everything you do online is visible to them.
3. Malware on your device.
An unsecured connection makes it easier for attackers to push malware onto your laptop or phone. That malware can then spread once you’re back on a work network.
Safer alternatives you should use:
Mobile Hotspot
Use your phone’s mobile data hotspot when you’re out and about. It’s more secure and keeps your connection private.
Company VPN
If your company provides a VPN, always use it. This encrypts your internet traffic so even if someone is trying to intercept it, they won’t be able to read it.
Secure Home Network
Working from home on a properly secured Wi-Fi network is always safer than connecting to public networks.
Businesses should have a clear policy in place that prohibits the use of public Wi-Fi for work purposes and provides staff with safe alternatives like VPN access or mobile hotspots. Public Wi-Fi is unsafe and the risks far outweigh the convenience. Always use a secure connection you control, and follow the tools and guidelines your company has provided.
FAQs
Is it safe if the Wi-Fi has a password?
No – even if a café or hotel Wi-Fi has a password, you’re still sharing it with dozens or hundreds of strangers. That makes it just as risky.
What about hotel Wi-Fi where I log in with my room number?
It may feel private, but it’s still shared by every guest. Your traffic can still be intercepted.
What’s the safest option when I need to work on the go?
Use your phone’s hotspot or a company-provided VPN. These are the most secure alternatives.