You are probably aware that 4G as the primary mobile internet that we have access to today. You might also have seen Wi-Fi hotspots, which come in two forms. The first is the private Wi-Fi network you installed in your home or use at work. The other is the Wi Fi networks provided by various Internet Service Providers (ISPs) across the country that are available to the public at no cost or the Wi-Fi networks that a variety of cafes and restaurants offer to their customers.
In a world where everybody is connected at all times and connected, all three have an important role, especially when we’re out and about. But, with cyber-crimes growing, a lot of users are unsure of which is secure and which is best left unexplored.
The truth is that when you’re connected to the internet, you will never be 100% secure. But, it’s possible to be close to hundred percent security level with the various security measures that can be taken. Knowing what the mentioned technology is and how they affect the level of risk you are exposed to is crucial for you to know which is the most secure.
So let’s look at the three types of connections that your phone could be connected via the Internet.
4G Connection
4G internet can be accessed via a device that is that is equipped with the technology. Nearly all current smartphones can be equipped with 4G connectivity. 4G internet can be accessed through your mobile provider and is accessible everywhere that you can get coverage from your cellphone. The data transmitted and received by an encrypted 4G network thus, making it safer than public Wi-Fi network.
Private Wi-Fi Network
Private networks are the one that you can use in your home or in your company obtained by an ISP which is in the proper category. An excellent example of a reliable home internet is Windstream internet, which is accessible via the Wi-Fi router, but limited to authorized users only. Wi-Fi routers today have WPA2 technology that allows wireless networks to be protected with encryption and passwords that keeps information reasonably secure. Most ISPs offer these routers when you wish to use devices for business use.
Public Wi-Fi Network
The Wi-Fi networks that are password-free and accessible in cafes, restaurants or airports. are the Wi-Fi hotspots that are available to public use. that you must stay clear of in any way. It’s a stretch to think that we’ll never use an open Wi-Fi hotspot, since there are times when it is necessary. It is, however, the most dangerous option to remain connected, as you will never know who or what’s hidden behind that same internet. As you might get diseases when swimming in polluted water, surfing a network that is dirty could lead to your device being infected by malware and viruses.
Risks of Public Wi-Fi
While it can provide an emergency response under challenging situations however, public Wi-Fi is rife with more dangers than benefits. Hackers are attracted to public Wi-Fi networks because users are likely to log onto your social networking accounts and look up information about their interests and activities, which gives hackers with a chance to snare you when the security is off. Each year, hackers steal billions from the millions of Wi-Fi users.
No Encryption
Hotspots on public Wi-Fi aren’t secure which means that everyone on the same network could see the history of your browsing as well as messages sent and personal files stored on the device. The risk is even greater of having your bank account details lost if the mobile app or site you’re using isn’t secured.
Man In The Middle Attacks
WiFi hotspots that are public leave users vulnerable for MITM (Man in the Middle Attacks) (Man in the Middle Attacks). Hackers who attempt to gain access to your information could set up a connection between two unknowing individuals and monitor all essential data like transactions made with purchase cards, passwords and others.
Rogue Hotspots
It is also possible to find untrusted hotspots when using public Wi-Fi. Recalling the particulars of the Wi-Fi networks you utilize frequently is possible, but you won’t be able to remember the precise name of the WiFi network that is offered by a brand new coffee shop you’ve visited on your first visit. Hackers frequently create the same network accessible with the one they started to trick you into falling into their trap. Anyone who falls victim is robbed of personal information, and is also infected with malware or viruses.
Risks of 4G
As I mentioned earlier that nothing is 100% secure against hackers. If you fail to make the necessary steps to prevent hacking that you must, you’re at risk of cybercrime , regardless of the network you are using. In spite of the fact that 4G networks are secure and therefore more difficult for hackers to hack their security, Man In The Middle attacks have only been attempted in a couple of instances. However 4G networks are much more difficult to penetrate and are therefore more secure than Wi-Fi that does not require any hacking to begin with.
Some Risk-Free Options
If we sort the three types of internet networks according to their security level 4G is first then comes your private Wi-Fi network and then public Wi-Fi.
Whatever web-based service you choose to use there are some actions you need to take to ensure your security on the internet.
Make sure you use the VPN whenever you need to (Virtual Private Network). All information transmitted between your devices are encrypted by using VPN software. This can also help with Man In The Middle Attacks.
Anti-virus software should be installed onto your computer in order to protect your device from viruses and malware inflicting havoc on your information.
The first line of defense is the firewall. It prevents any malicious programs or individuals from getting an access point to the device. The firewall of your device shouldn’t be disabled.
The idea of allowing your smartphone to connect to Wi-Fi networks that are public isn’t a wise idea. To keep out rogue hotspots it’s recommended to obtain the name of the network from a person who is a part of the company.
Apply all of your senses. This is the single most important yet under-appreciated aspect of our physical and digital existence. Following your instincts is often the best way to stay safe. Be cautious if something seems off or isn’t right. Don’t believe anything which seems to be too good to be true.
