Cybersecurity experts warn that public WiFi networks expose users to serious risks, including data theft and identity fraud. A 2025 survey shows 18% of users face security issues after using public WiFi, rising to 24% for daily users. Common mistakes include accessing banking apps, using unsecured websites, joining fake hotspots, skipping VPNs, and leaving file sharing or Bluetooth enabled.
Public WiFi remains a daily convenience for travellers, remote workers, and commuters. Cafés, airports, hotels, and shopping centres offer free connectivity that allows people to check emails, access work documents, and stay connected on the move. However, cybersecurity specialists continue to warn that these networks are built for accessibility, not protection, leaving users exposed to serious digital risks.
According to Pete Cannata, Chief Operating Officer at Atlantic.Net, public WiFi networks are prime targets for cybercriminals, especially during peak travel periods when usage increases and oversight remains limited.
“Public networks in cafes, airports, shopping centres, and hotels are designed for ease of access, not security,” explains Cannata. “That open access is exactly what makes them hunting grounds for cybercriminals.”
Recent data supports this concern. A 2025 survey shows that approximately 18% of people report experiencing a security issue immediately after using public WiFi. Among individuals who connect to public networks on a daily basis, the figure rises to 24%, highlighting how repeated exposure significantly increases risk.
Public WiFi Usage Continues to Outpace Security Awareness
As reliance on mobile connectivity grows, many users underestimate the technical weaknesses of open networks. Unlike private or corporate systems, public WiFi often lacks strong encryption, monitoring, and authentication. This allows attackers to observe, intercept, or manipulate data traffic with minimal effort.
Cybersecurity experts note that many breaches do not rely on advanced hacking techniques. Instead, they exploit predictable user behaviour. Cannata outlines five recurring mistakes that expose individuals to identity theft, financial loss, and long-term security issues.
Accessing Banking and Financial Applications on Public Networks
One of the most dangerous practices on public WiFi is accessing banking or financial services. When users log into banking apps, credit card portals, or payment platforms over unsecured networks, sensitive information may travel without encryption.
“Public WiFi networks often lack encryption, which means data travels in plain text,” says Cannata. “A hacker using basic packet-sniffing software can capture your username, password, and account details in real time. Once they have that information, they have direct access to your money.”
Even basic actions such as checking account balances can expose login credentials and personal details that attackers later use for fraud or identity theft.
Entering Login Details on Non-Encrypted Websites
Not all websites use HTTPS encryption, which is identified by the padlock icon in the browser address bar. When users enter passwords or personal data on HTTP pages, the information remains visible to anyone monitoring the network.
“HTTP sites send data as plain text, making password theft incredibly easy on public WiFi,” Cannata explains. “Hackers can position themselves between you and the website you’re visiting, a technique called a man-in-the-middle attack, and capture everything you type.”
This vulnerability affects a wide range of platforms, including email services, social media accounts, and online shopping websites.
Falling for Fake or Lookalike WiFi Networks
Cybercriminals frequently deploy fake hotspots with names that closely resemble legitimate networks, such as “Airport_Free_WiFi” or “Hotel_Guest_Network”. These networks are designed to trick users into connecting without verifying their authenticity.
“Once you connect to a fake hotspot, the hacker controls everything,” warns Cannata. “They can monitor your activity, inject malware onto your device, or redirect you to phishing sites that steal your information.”
These networks often appear alongside genuine ones, making them difficult to identify unless users confirm the official network name with staff.
Browsing Without a Virtual Private Network (VPN)
A Virtual Private Network encrypts internet traffic and prevents third parties from viewing user activity. Without a VPN, anyone on the same public network may observe browsing behaviour, data transfers, and login activity.
“Think of a VPN as a private courier for your data,” says Cannata. “Even if someone intercepts it, they can’t read it because it’s encrypted. It’s one of the simplest and most effective protections available.”
Experts emphasise that attackers do not focus solely on high-value targets. Any unprotected device on a public network presents an opportunity.
Leaving File Sharing and Bluetooth Enabled
File sharing and Bluetooth often remain active in the background, particularly on laptops and mobile devices. On public networks, these features can provide unauthorised access to files or system controls.
“Most people forget these features are running in the background,” Cannata notes. “But on public WiFi, they create open doors into your device. Hackers can use these connections to install malware, steal files, or gain control of your system without you ever knowing.”
While convenient in private settings, these features introduce unnecessary risks in public environments.
Simple Habits Can Reduce Public WiFi Risks
Cannata stresses that protecting personal data does not require advanced technical knowledge. Awareness and basic security habits significantly reduce exposure.
“The good news is that protecting yourself on public WiFi doesn’t require technical expertise. It just takes awareness and a few simple habits.”
He advises avoiding access to sensitive services such as banking, email, and healthcare portals while on public networks. When secure access is required, mobile hotspots provide a safer alternative.
“Always enable a VPN before connecting. There are reliable options available for every budget, and the protection they provide is worth the small investment.”
Cannata also recommends disabling auto-connect settings and turning off file sharing and Bluetooth when outside the home.
“These small steps can mean the difference between a productive coffee shop session and a costly security breach that takes months to resolve.”
About Atlantic.Net
Founded in 1994, Atlantic.Net is a privately held global cloud infrastructure provider serving customers in more than 100 countries. The company delivers secure, compliant, on-demand, and customisable hosting solutions, supported by 24/7 U.S.-based customer service.
Atlantic.Net specialises in security and compliance, offering services such as HIPAA-compliant hosting and PCI-compliant hosting. Its infrastructure includes bare metal servers, dedicated hosting, GPU hosting, colocation, and its award-winning cloud platform. With eight data centre regions across the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and Asia, Atlantic.Net supports mission-critical workloads for organisations worldwide.
Himani Verma is a seasoned content writer and SEO expert, with experience in digital media. She has held various senior writing positions at enterprises like CloudTDMS (Synthetic Data Factory), Barrownz Group, and ATZA. Himani has also been Editorial Writer at Hindustan Time, a leading Indian English language news platform. She excels in content creation, proofreading, and editing, ensuring that every piece is polished and impactful. Her expertise in crafting SEO-friendly content for multiple verticals of businesses, including technology, healthcare, finance, sports, innovation, and more.
