Use Virtual Private Network (VPN)
Especially in public and unsecured connections (wireless or connected networks).
Many people take the convenience of using wireless connections in public areas or at wireless access points in their homes for granted.
NOTE: This article is outside of corporate or networks with high-security controls. When using company assets, follow the organization's policies and standard operating procedures.
Things you should consider when connecting to any network and why you should always use VPN on your mobile device, tablets or laptops, and connected computers:
Cyber attackers have plenty of automated utilities to view your login and password clearly in text.
Tools like Metasploit or others can expose credentials to unauthorized users for non-protected systems.
Nmap and Wireshark are other tools that attackers use to discover network assets and uncover or reveal the type of traffic in any network, what protocol it uses, what IP addresses, and what data types and information are being transported over the network.
Some passersby scan and track our wireless SSIDs (Service Set Identifiers) at home around the neighborhood.
Many of us use ISPs (Internet Service Providers) to access the internet. Wouldn’t you want to keep your data private as your data is actively querying information?
Cyber attackers don’t need much to target vulnerable users, whether in public, private, or home.
There are many VPN services available for personal purchase. I recommend taking the time to evaluate what is trusted, functional to your needs, and cost-effective. It is worth the cost of anonymity, where our privacy is becoming more limited.
Why do we want to have privacy when using any form of internet or network connection?
This prevents us from falling victim to ransomware, identity theft, advertisements, and, for some, falling prey to stalkers and malicious people.
We also do not want our critical and private information misused for unauthorized transactions on our behalf.
Limit tracking of our location, assets, and valuable information.
NOTE: Pay for trusted VPN services. If they are free, your data and information are being sold to third-party providers or data mined for future vulnerability exposure.
If you value your privacy and security, due your diligence. Assume you are already breached and your information has been leaked in the dark web.