In recent years, our smartphones have become extensions of ourselves. We now use these for pretty much everything. From online banking and managing our finances to research and entertainment, we can now access everything on the go. However, when we’re out and about, we have two choices: data or public Wi-Fi. Which of these should you be using to keep your experience safe? Let’s take a look.
The Security Showdown
Most people don’t give much thought to how they use their smartphones when on the go. There’s no denying that public Wi-Fi is convenient, but that doesn’t mean it’s the best choice. Consider these scenarios:
- You’re making a payment to your favourite store and entering your credit card details.
- You’re accessing your online bank to transfer funds to a friend.
In these cases, you should be opting to use data. Here’s why:
Levels of Encryption
Data networks utilize encryption protocols. This means that any information you send or receive is scrambled. The result is that the information is unreadable to anyone who may intercept it on the network. The issue with public Wi-Fi is that it often lacks this layer of security. The result? Your data is left vulnerable.
Access Control
When you connect via data, your network requires authentication with your provider. However, this is not the case with public Wi-Fi, particularly on open networks. This means that anyone within a certain range can connect, increasing the risk of being snooped on.
What if Data isn’t an Option?
There may be times when data simply isn’t an option. You may lack coverage, or you may have exhausted your data plan. If that’s the case, and you choose to use public Wi-Fi, these are steps you can take to keep your information secure:
- Use a VPN: A VPN, which stands for , encrypts your internet traffic. This creates a secure channel even on an unsecured network. By all means, use your smartphone to browse, but if you can’t use a VPN, it may be worth avoiding making transactions or entering passwords.
- Stick to HTTPS Sites: When you look at reputable retailers and sites featuring transactions such as real money online casino Canada via web browser, you’ll notice in the address bar that these feature a padlock symbol, and the URL starts with HTTPS. This stands for “hypertext transfer protocol secure”, meaning that the privacy of your data is protected during its transfer. It’s important to keep an eye out for this even when using mobile data, as this shows that a connection is secure.
- Disable File Sharing: Turn off Bluetooth and any file-sharing features your smartphone may have.
Final Thoughts
You can make an informed decision when you understand the differences between data and public Wi-Fi. Being cautious can go a long way to keeping your information safe and secure. If you can’t use your data, take extra precautions when using public Wi-Fi. It’s certainly worth that slight bit of effort.
