Cyber Awareness Items

How to Keep Your Information Safe: Public Wi-Fi Security Tips

Public Wi-Fi networks are widely available—from coffee shops and airports to hotels and restaurants—providing convenient internet access on the go. However, these networks often lack proper security, making them prime targets for cybercriminals looking to intercept sensitive data, such as login credentials, financial information, and personal details.

At Santa Clara University, we want you to stay safe while connected. Follow these practical security tips, with resources from SCU IT and trusted cybersecurity organizations, to protect yourself on public Wi-Fi.

1. Use SCU’s VPN Service

Public Wi-Fi lacks encryption, leaving your online activities vulnerable. Using a Virtual Private Network (VPN) encrypts your internet traffic, making it significantly harder for hackers to intercept your data. SCU provides VPN access for all faculty, staff, and students.

• How to do it: Download and install the SCU VPN by following the instructions here: How to Access VPN

2. Turn Off File Sharing and Auto-Connect Features

Leaving file sharing enabled or allowing automatic connection to Wi-Fi networks increases your risk of exposure.

• How to do it:

  • On Mac: Go to "System Preferences" > "Sharing" and uncheck all sharing options.

  • On Windows: Navigate to "Control Panel" > "Network and Sharing Center" > "Advanced sharing settings" and disable file sharing.

  • Turn off Wi-Fi auto-connect, Bluetooth, and GPS when not in use.

3. Keep Security Software Updated

Ensure your devices are protected with the latest antivirus, antispyware, firewall software, and operating system updates. This minimizes vulnerabilities cybercriminals can exploit.

• How to do it: SCU provides antivirus tools. Visit the SCU Supported Software Downloads page for available options.

4. Use Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)

Even if attackers gain access to your password on public Wi-Fi, Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) adds a critical security layer by requiring a second verification step. (MFA is sometimes referred to as Two-Factor Authentication or 2FA.)

• How to do it: Enable MFA on your SCU accounts and other online services. Learn more about SCU’s MFA at SCU Duo Multi-Factor Authentication.

5. Avoid Sensitive Transactions on Public Wi-Fi

Avoid making financial transactions, logging into sensitive accounts, or sharing personal information over unencrypted public Wi-Fi.

• Alternative: Use your mobile carrier’s cellular data connection instead, which is more secure.

6. Check for HTTPS Encryption

Always verify that the websites you visit use HTTPS, which encrypts data sent between your browser and the website.

• How to do it: Look for “https://” in the website’s URL. To ensure you always use HTTPS, consider installing the HTTPS Everywhere browser extension.

7. Log Out Completely and Avoid "Remember Me" Options

Simply closing your browser isn't enough. Always log out of websites when you're done and avoid selecting options like “Remember me” or “Stay signed in.”

8. Be Aware of Fake Wi-Fi Networks

Hackers often create rogue hotspots with names similar to legitimate networks (e.g., "CoffeeShop_WiFi"). Confirm the correct network name with staff before connecting.

Additional Note

If you're not careful when using public Wi-Fi, cybercriminals can snoop on your emails, social media, and even financial transactions. Being too casual could lead to compromised bank accounts or stolen personal information. By following these tips, you greatly reduce the risk of having your data compromised.