Google’s warning
Google Alert: Free Wi-Fi has become an essential part of modern life. Be it an airport, a café or a hotel lobby, public networks often prove helpful when mobile data is low. Many people find this a convenient feature that can be used to check messages, stream videos or make instant online payments without using up data. However, Google’s latest warning is telling a different story.
Google, in its ‘Android: Behind the Screen’ report, has expressed concern over the security of public Wi-Fi over text-based scams and advised smartphone users to avoid them. According to this, such networks are open targets for cyber attackers who can exploit and access personal information using weak security measures. Tech giant Google has come out with its latest report on text-based scams and in this Android: Behind the Screen report, it has alerted about the increasing risks and dangers on public Wi-Fi.
The company is asking smartphone users to avoid public Wi-Fi as far as possible. Avoid using public Wi-Fi at all costs, especially when accessing banking, online shopping or financial or personal banking accounts.
Why are free Wi-Fi networks risky?
Public Wi-Fi may seem secure if it requires a password or comes from a trusted source like a café or hotel. However Google says that this can become an easy entry point for hackers. Once connected, hackers can intercept or monitor data passing between your device and the Internet. This means that your personal information like banking credentials, personal messages and even login details are vulnerable.
Sometimes hackers can put malicious software in your phone without your knowledge. Google recommends that users should avoid using public Wi-Fi for activities involving sensitive information, especially online shopping, banking or accessing personal accounts.
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