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Security Tips for Using Public WiFi

Free public WiFi is not secure, but there are ways to reduce your risks when you use it. Choose secure Trinity eduroam WiFi options or a secure home wireless network whenever possible. If you decide that using public or free WiFi is your only option, take precautions to protect yourself and follow the tips below to make using it as safe as possible.

Use a VPN

The most secure way to use public or free WiFi is through a VPN to secure your connection. This protects your communications from being read by others on the same public WiFi. Be wary of free VPN services, especially if the provider is unknown. There are many reputable VPN options available.

  • The Trinity VPN provides an encrypted connection between your device and the Trinity eduroam network. This encrypts specific traffic from your device and enables access to college resources from untrusted networks. See Windows VPN or Mac VPN for more details on Trinity’s VPN.
  • If you decide to use a VPN service provided or purchased from outside Trinity, be aware that it will not give access to Trinity resources that require a secure connection and that free services may not be as safe as reputable paid services.

Securing Your Home Wi-Fi

When working from home, securing your Wi-Fi and taking essential precautions is vital to protect both your personal and professional data. Following the security guidelines recommended by CISA (Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency) can significantly reduce the risk of cyber threats. These measures, including strong passwords, encryption, and network segmentation, help safeguard your online activities and create a safer remote work environment. By staying proactive about your Wi-Fi security, you can ensure greater privacy and reduce vulnerabilities in your home office setup.

Use Your Mobile When Possible

Consider using your cellular service as a mobile hotspot for a more secure internet connection, as cell carriers generally offer stronger protection than public Wi-Fi. For instructions on setting up a mobile hotspot, refer to “How to Turn Your Phone Into a Wi-Fi Hotspot” from PCMag (10/14/24). However, before transmitting any sensitive data, review the Data Classification Standard to ensure compliance and protect Trinity data when using personal devices.

General WiFi Safety Tips

  • Make sure your device is updated with the latest operating system and application updates. Wi-Fi updates and patches are delivered through these updates to maintain security.
  • Save the settings for secure WiFi, such as Trinity eduroam or your home network. Do not save settings for public WiFi connections.
  • Do not set your devices to automatically connect to available WiFi. Have them prompt you for each new connection.
  • Beware of registering for or signing up to use public WiFi, especially if this requires giving personal information. Don’t reuse your username or password (especially your Trinity ones!) if you need to create an account for free WiFi.
  • Be aware of what you are transmitting or sharing. Avoid doing sensitive work or transactions on public WiFi, especially banking, shopping, and transmitting personal or sensitive information.