A cybersecurity expert from F6, Sergey Zolotukhin, has issued a stark warning about the significant risks associated with using free public Wi-Fi networks. According to Zolotukhin, the primary threat lies in the ability of malicious actors to intercept user sessions and access their sensitive data.
Zolotukhin strongly advises against connecting to public Wi-Fi hotspots altogether. If it`s absolutely unavoidable, he recommends using only verified networks where connection details can be obtained from a trusted source, such as a hotel reception or a cafe manager. Crucially, users should never transmit any confidential information over these networks, including login details for online services or credit card information for purchases, due to the high risk of interception.
The expert also highlighted a common tactic employed by cybercriminals: creating fake access points, often referred to as «evil twins.» These fraudulent networks mimic the names of legitimate hotspots found in popular locations like shopping malls, train stations, airports, cafes, and gas stations. Such «evil twins» can automatically connect to devices if the auto-connect Wi-Fi feature is enabled, unbeknownst to the user.
Therefore, Zolotukhin advises disabling the automatic Wi-Fi connection feature on your devices. If a smartphone or laptop inadvertently connects to such a malicious network, all transmitted and received data – including browsing history, private messages, and logins/passwords for various services – instantly become accessible to cybercriminals. This vulnerability could, for instance, lead to serious consequences such as the theft of messenger accounts or even financial fraud.
