REALTORS® are always on the move, working from offices, coffee shops, showings, closings, airports, and everywhere in between. Staying connected is part of the job, but so is protecting the information clients trust us with every day. As we recognize September as REALTOR® Safety Month, we are sharing guidance from a National Association of REALTORS® Real Estate News article by Burton Kelso on “How to Use Public Wi-Fi Safely” with practical reminders for taking a proactive approach to cybersecurity.
In today’s world, you need to be extra careful about cybersecurity threats while away from home, especially when using public Wi-Fi. Cyber criminals recognize your desire to stay connected to the internet, your smart home devices and social media accounts, and have created ways to gain access to your personal data.
Knowing the people look to save data on their cellular plan by looking for free Wi-Fi networks, some hackers will hang out in public spots and set up open networks with Wi-Fi network names that look legitimate. Don’t get scammed.
The Hidden Danger of Public Wi-Fi. A hacker only needs to be within range of the Wi-Fi network to get access to your data. Sometimes these criminals will go as far as to set up a fake landing or sign-in page, providing a fraudulent link to “register.” This process can install software on your devices, which then allows thieves to access any data stored on your device, including social media, bank account and other financial information.
Additionally, public Wi-Fi is just one big wireless network, which means anyone who has general network skills can peer across the Wi-Fi network to view items stored on your smart device.
Seven Steps to Protect Your Device on Public Wi-Fi. Use the following tips to keep your devices cyber secure whenever logging on to public Wi-Fi.
1.Verify the name of the public Wi-Fi from the establishment before you connect. Hackers will create fake Wi-Fi access points that look legit, so you should always verify the correct name before you connect. Most establishments will have you log into their Wi-Fi network rather than just having an open network.
2. Avoid any online shopping or other financial activity. You never know who is snooping on public Wi-Fi networks, so it's a best practice to avoid accessing your banking or financial websites whenever using free public Wi-Fi.
3. When you can, use your cellular data to surf the web. The safest way to surf the web when you're traveling is from your own cellular network. Your smartphone provider's network is safe because it provides a two-way connection between your device and your mobile network; there are no other devices involved.
4. Consider purchasing a portable router or a mobile hotspot when traveling. Not all devices have a cellular network card built in. That's where a mobile hot spot or portable router comes in. Both use your cell provider's network, keeping your surfing secure and allowing you to set-up your own personal connection.
5. Consider connecting through a VPN, even if you are using a secure Wi-Fi connection. A Virtual Private Network is absolutely worth it if you prioritize online privacy, frequently use public Wi-Fi, or want to bypass geographic content restrictions. It is not an invisibility cloak, however, and it won’t protect you from every cybersecurity threat. Unsecured networks—like those in coffee shops, hotels or airports—make it easy for hackers to intercept your data. A VPN encrypts your connection, keeping your passwords and banking details secure. A VPN routes and encrypts your traffic, but it cannot stop you from downloading malware, falling for phishing scams or getting hacked via social engineering.
6. Disable file sharing. If you use your Windows or Macintosh laptop in an office environment, you may have enabled file sharing to allow your co-workers to share your files. Make sure this feature is off before you connect to any public Wi-Fi.
7. Don't leave your laptop, tablet or smartphone unattended in public. Even if you’re working on a secure Wi-Fi network, that won’t stop someone from taking your property or sneaking a peek at your device.
Cybersecurity is now part of everyday REALTOR® safety. A few extra steps before connecting to public Wi-Fi can help protect your devices, your business, and the client information you are trusted to handle. Throughout September, Greater Chattanooga REALTORS® is offering safety classes to help members stay informed and prepared, including a Data Security class on September 14. We encourage members to take advantage of these opportunities at gcar.net and make safety a habit in every part of the business. #That'sWhoWeR
Greater Chattanooga REALTORS® is The Voice of Real Estate in Greater Chattanooga. A regional organization with nearly 3,000 members, Greater Chattanooga Realtors is one of some 1,200 local boards and associations of Realtors nationwide that comprise the National Association of Realtors. Greater Chattanooga Realtors service Hamilton and Sequatchie counties in southeast Tennessee, and Catoosa, Dade, and Walker counties in northwest Georgia. For more information, visit www.gcar.net or call 423.698.8001