Public Wi-Fi

Public Wi-Fi Is on the Naughty List: Safer Ways to Buy on the Go for the Holidays

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The holiday season brings joy, generosity, and plenty of shopping, even using the public Wi-Fi. But while you’re chasing deals and checking off gift lists, cybercriminals are chasing opportunities too. One of their favorite playgrounds? Public Wi‑Fi.

Why Public Wi‑Fi Is Risky

Free networks at coffee shops, airports, and malls might feel convenient, but they’re also prime targets for hackers. These networks often lack encryption, making it easy for attackers to intercept your data, inject malware, or steal login credentials. Think of public Wi‑Fi as a gift you don’t want to unwrap, it’s full of surprises, and none of them are good.

 

Safer Ways to Shop on the Go

  1. Skip Public Wi‑Fi for Checkouts

Public Wi‑Fi is convenient but dangerous for transactions. Hackers can intercept your data through techniques like “man-in-the-middle” attacks.

Better approach:

  • Use your mobile network or a reputable VPN service for secure browsing.
  • If you must use public Wi‑Fi, avoid logging into banking or shopping accounts.
  • Disable auto-connect features on your device to prevent accidental connections to rogue networks.

  1. Use Virtual Cards or Purchase Protection

Virtual cards generate temporary numbers for each transaction, reducing the risk of fraud.

Why it matters:

  • Even if a hacker steals the virtual card number, it becomes useless after the transaction.
  • Credit cards often offer better fraud protection than debit cards, which pull funds directly from your account.
    Extra tip:
  • Check if your bank or payment app offers disposable card numbers or enhanced security features.

  1. Enable MFA and Alerts

Multi-factor authentication (MFA) adds an extra layer of security beyond passwords.

How to implement:

  • Enable MFA on all shopping and banking accounts.
  • Use authentication apps rather than SMS for stronger protection.
  • Set up real-time alerts for purchases so you can spot unauthorized activity immediately.

  1. Watch Out for Phishing Scams

Cybercriminals love the holidays because shoppers are distracted.

Common tricks:

  • Fake shipping notifications or “delivery issues” emails.
  • Charity scams asking for urgent donations.
  • Social media ads with unbelievable discounts.
    What to do:
  • Hover over links before clicking.
  • Verify the sender’s email address.
  • When in doubt, go directly to the retailer’s official site.

  1. Secure Your Devices While Traveling

Your device is your shopping hub—keep it safe.

Best practices:

  • Use strong passwords or biometric locks.
  • Install updates for your operating system and apps before traveling.
  • Turn off Bluetooth and file-sharing features when not in use.
  • Carry a privacy screen to prevent “shoulder surfing” in crowded places.

Cybersecurity Myths to Bust

Myth: If a site has a lock icon, it’s always safe.

The padlock icon (HTTPS) means the connection is encrypted, but it doesn’t guarantee the site itself is legitimate.

Reality:

  • Cybercriminals can easily obtain SSL certificates for fake sites.
  • Always check the URL carefully—look for misspellings or unusual domain endings.
  • When in doubt, type the retailer’s official web address manually instead of clicking links.

 

Myth: Holiday emails from known brands are harmless.

Attackers often spoof well-known brands to trick shoppers into clicking malicious links.

Reality:

  • Phishing emails can look convincing, complete with logos and holiday themes.
  • Verify by checking the sender’s domain (e.g., “@brand.com” vs. “@brand-support.info”).
  • Avoid clicking links in emails; go directly to the retailer’s official site or app.

 

Myth: Reusing a throwaway password is fine.

Using the same password—even for accounts you consider “low risk”—creates a chain reaction if one account is compromised.

Reality:

  • Hackers use credential stuffing to try stolen passwords across multiple sites.
  • Use a password manager to create unique, strong passwords for every account.
  • Combine this with MFA for maximum protection.

 

The holidays should be joyful—not stressful because of cyber threats. By avoiding risky behaviors like shopping on public Wi‑Fi and following these security tips, you can keep your season merry and your data safe.

🎄 Happy Holidays from all of us at BEI! Stay secure, shop smart, and spread the word—share these tips with your friends, family, and colleagues so everyone can enjoy a safer holiday season.

Ready to take action?
✅ Bookmark this guide for quick reference.
✅ Share it on your company intranet or social channels.
✅ Encourage your team to enable MFA and review their security settings today.