PROTECT YOURSELF WHEN USING PUBLIC WI-FI Look Before You Leap
When you’re in a pinch and need to get online while on the go, public Wi-Fi can feel like a lifesaver. If you’re not careful, however, five minutes spent
Regardless of the security of the network, it’s still a good idea to alter your settings when accessing public networks. On your laptop, smartphone, or tablet, you can select “public network” in your network location settings. When you do make this change, your computer will not share files and other information with other machines. That’s crucial because when you are on a public network, you’re sharing it with many other users who you know nothing about. The most intrepid snoops will even use tools like Firesheep to allow them to view your screen in real time. Because of this, you should never access financial, medical, or other sensitive information while on a public network. You should also avoid shopping online or inputting credit card information when you’re not on a secure connection. Encrypted websites, like your bank’s, make every effort to prevent data from being compromised, but you can’t rely on them alone when you’re on free public Wi-Fi. If you absolutely must access public Wi-Fi, it’s best to adopt a “better safe than sorry” mentality. You can also use tools like a VPN to keep your private information secure. No matter how many precautions you take, though, public networks will always carry some inherent risk. Remember that the next time you log on. NEED NETWORKING OR COMPUTER HELP?
checking your email or shopping on Amazon could lead to weeks of trouble recovering your compromised accounts. Even when we know better, logging onto dubious public networks is a cybersecurity sin we’ve probably all committed at least once. You don’t need to avoid public Wi-Fi altogether to protect yourself from prying eyes, but you do need to be mindful and ask questions before logging on. It’s not uncommon for hackers to set up fake clones of prominent public networks in an effort to dupe unsuspecting users. If you’re at a coffee shop, for example, you should check with an employee to make sure you are logging on to the correct network. Password-protected networks are much safer, even when all you have to do to get the password is ask for it.
SPOTLIGHT ON SUSAN DEIGNAN
Susan Deignan, our Service Coordinator, is the lead-off hitter for our customer support team. She makes sure our support tickets are effectively managed, providing fast and thorough resolutions for our customers. “I love being that voice of assurance letting our customers know it’s going to be okay,” Susan says. From the moment she arrived, Susan was struck by the cohesion of the AZCOMP team. “Everyone here has the same goals and takes pride in what they do,” Susan notes. “It’s the best place to work.”
Call our direct support line: (480) 730-3055 Create a support ticket via email: ithelp@azcomp.com
Learn more about how to get unlimited computer and networking support at www.azcompit.com. DOWNLOAD OUR FREE REPORT
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When she’s not helping our customers get the support they need, Susan enjoys hanging out with her husband and cooking. “Even though I’m a transplant from Massachusetts, I’ve developed a mean refried bean recipe during my time in Arizona,” says Susan. Speaking of Massachusetts, that’s where Susan’s two granddaughters, Kailyn and Kinsley, live. She’s a proud grandma and visits the little ones whenever she has a chance.
This report is available for free at azcompit.com/protect. Download it today to ensure that your computer systems are as secure as possible. With this report, you can have peace of mind knowing that you can enjoy your Fourth of July barbecue without worrying about the safety of your network and data.
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