Although convenient, public wireless connections are typically not secure. Your home or personal WiFi system also may presents security risks. TTUnet WiFi service on campus is secured using industry standard and proven security practices. However, most public WiFi available in retail stores, hotels, airports, and conferences are configured for convenience rather than security.
Public Wifi precautions:
- Avoid using public hotspots for important transactions, such as transactions that require a login. You should not make financial transactions or use credit cards over public WiFi;
- Don’t check your email or social media sites on public wireless connections, as you might expose your login information to hackers; and
- Be sure to log out when you are done.
Home WiFi precautions:
- Change the default password when setting up your home WiFi;
- Enable your WiFi router’s strongest security features, such as WPA2;
- Disable remote administration (a feature on newer WiFi routers that allows administration of the router from the Internet);
- Make sure your home WiFi access is password protected because “drive-by hackers” or your neighbors could gain access to your wireless network, steal your personal information, or participate in illegal online activities that could trace back to you; and
- Be selective about providing access to your home WiFi to guests.
Please visit www.safecomputing.ttu.edu for more tips and information on a variety of cyber security topics. The National Cyber Security Awareness Alliance also provides tips at www.StaySafeOnline.org.
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Posted:
10/22/2014
Originator:
IT Education
Email:
iteducation@ttu.edu
Department:
Technology Support
Categories
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