Using a WiFi connection for your Internet access is very convenient for most on-the-go consumers. However, not all WiFi hotspots are safe for you to access and use to go about your financial transactions. Take note that there is such a thing as online id theft that doesn’t go away. The rise in credit card fraud is also an issue that has to be attended to vigilantly.
If you need to access public WiFi hotspots or your own private WiFi connection to perform your transactions, you have to learn about online identity theft prevention. This ultimately teaches you how to prevent credit scams as well.
It’s unavoidable for busy consumers like you to make use of WiFi connections especially with your busy schedules and mobile gadgets in hand. You just have to be a step ahead of identity thieves who never stop trying to steal from you.
Securing Your WiFi Use in Public Hot Spots
When you find yourself in a public place and in need of a WiFi connection, consider the following pointers before you perform your financial transactions:
Remember that you are never really secure.
Take note that the identity thieves and hackers might be using the same WiFi network and are just waiting for the right opportunity to strike. It’s very easy for them to seek out your data and steal from you right then and there, even if the WiFi hot spot has a password.
Get a hold of security tools.
If you have Windows or Mac OS X, you can readily access their built-in security features. You could also activate your firewall, stop file sharing, and block incoming traffic. These will keep the thieves out.
Guard your passwords.
You could install LastPass software so that you could have a safe place to store your passwords. This way, you don’t have to type your passwords or save them in your computer.
Spot the padlock sign or the “https” in the URL.
These are signs that you could perform financial transactions using that website because of its optimal security feature.
Use your common sense.
Take note that any public WiFi hot spot is not a safe tool for financial transactions. Just wait until you get home to your private WiFi connection to ensure the safety of your data.
Securing Your Private WiFi Connection
Your private WiFi connection could also be instantly used by surrounding users in your neighbourhood or apartment complex. If you don’t secure your WiFi access, your bills may increase, your connection tends to be slower, and your data will be compromised. Here are some of the steps to secure your personal WiFi network:
- Change your router settings.
Get your router’s user manual and change your router settings. If you can’t locate your printed manual, search your router brand through Google to find the information for your router’s settings. - Password protect your router.
This kind of protection prevents hackers from entering your WiFi premise. - Alter your SSID.
SSID is your router’s default name. This allows other users to know the network they’re accessing. Just make sure that you don’t use your name or any other data that would give away your account. - Use data encryption.
You should encrypt your wireless data so that others may not be able to see it. - Lower the range of your WiFi connection.
You can do this by changing the router settings or by placing your router under the bed or in a shoe box so that you could control the span of the signal.
A secure WiFi connection will help you use your financial and personal information without any fear. May these tips allow you to use WiFi connections securely.
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