Do not use public Wi-Fi

February 11,Kathmandu.In today 's time, the Internet has become an important part of people's lives. People use the Internet for online classes, digital learning, office work, OTT platforms and social media. However, the biggest problem occurs when we are at a place where the mobile data and Internet are not working.

In such a situation, people look for public Wi-Fi. Usually public Wi-Fi is available at public places like railway station, bus stop, airport, hotel or restaurant. It is completely free. Anyone can connect it to their mobile, tablet or laptop. Using public Wi-Fi is convenient, but it can also be risky.

Recently, the University Grants Commission (UGC) has advised students not to log in to their personal or professional accounts using public Wi-Fi as its use can lead to people falling prey to scams or fraud.

So, let's talk about why public Wi-Fi is not safe 

What is public Wi-Fi?

This is a wireless internet connection that is installed in public places like cafes, restaurants, airports, railway stations and public libraries. Usually this facility is completely free. Anyone can use it by entering a common password. At many places, you can connect public Wi-Fi directly to your device even without a password.

What are the benefits of public Wi-Fi?

Public Wi-Fi is needed the most during travel. Internet becomes weak especially in metro stations, big markets, stadiums and crowded areas. In such a situation, you can get better connectivity by using public Wi-Fi.

Why can using public Wi-Fi be dangerous?

Cyber ​​expert Pawan Duggal says that anyone can connect to public Wi-Fi. Hackers can put malware or virus in your phone or laptop through public Wi-Fi, which can hack your system. This is the reason why the risk of hacking and data theft increases on public Wi-Fi.

In which places is it more dangerous to use public Wi-Fi?

Often the security of public Wi-Fi is weak. Also, being an open network, it is easy for cyber criminals to target them. Therefore, one should avoid using public Wi-Fi in some places. Understand these points-

Cafes and restaurants: Some cafes and restaurants provide free Wi-Fi, but their network security is not strong. Hackers can set up fake Wi-Fi networks in such places, which can lead to theft of users' information.

Shopping malls and retail stores: People use free Wi-Fi in shopping malls to make payment transactions or use social media apps. At such places, your bank details can be stolen through phishing attacks and malware.

Airports and railway stations: Often thousands of people are present at public places like airports and railway stations. In such a situation, hackers can steal your personal data through fake Wi-Fi portals.

Hotels and Resorts: Often hotels and resorts do not keep the security of their public Wi-Fi updated. Due to this, malware or virus can reach your device. In such a situation, if you login to any banking site or social media app from the hotel Wi-Fi, then hackers can steal your sensitive information.