How to safely use public Wi-Fi to protect your privacy?

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Public Wi-Fi networks in cafes, airports, and hotels are inherently insecure. Attackers can intercept unencrypted traffic, perform man-in-the-middle attacks, or create fake access points to steal credentials. Using such networks without additional precautions puts all your confidential information at risk.

The main tool for protection in such conditions is a Virtual Private Network, or VPN. This service creates an encrypted tunnel between your device and a remote server, making intercepted data useless to attackers located on the same local network.

To ensure maximum security, follow these rules:
1. Always enable a VPN before connecting to any public wireless network.
2. Disable automatic connection to open networks in your device's operating system settings.
3. Ensure you use the HTTPS protocol for visiting websites by checking for the lock icon in the browser's address bar.
4. Avoid logging into critical accounts, such as online banking, via public internet unless absolutely necessary.
5. After finishing your work, forget the network in your device settings so it does not connect to it automatically in the future.

Additionally, it is recommended to disable file and printer sharing on your computer to make the device invisible to other participants of the public network.

How to safely use public Wi-Fi to protect your privacy?

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