As more small business owners are taking working vacations than ever, it is more important than ever to be aware of Wi-Fi safety. If you have a laptop with wireless connectivity, you can access the Internet using Wi-Fi, or wireless networks, often in public places such as coffee shops, airports, and hotels.
Use a firewall
If your computer uses Windows Vista or Windows XP and Service Pack 2 is installed, you have a built-in firewall that is always turned on.
If not, Windows Firewall can be configured to give you better protection when using wireless public networks..
For more information, see Windows Firewall.
Hide your files
Often when using public Wi-Fi, network encryption is often out of your control.
Review the privacy statement on the network's website to determine the type of encryption they use. (If there is no privacy statement you'd be better off not using the network.)
If financial or personal information is on your laptop, consider using an operating system that has the tools necessary to encrypt your information.
To learn more, see Encrypt or decrypt a folder or file.
Never type in credit card numbers or passwords
This provides some protection against casual hackers and identity thieves who prey on wireless networks, but if they are determined, they will eventually find a way to access your information.
Whenever possible avoid typing any sensitive information, such as your credit card number or any other financial information, while you use public Wi-Fi. If you must enter credit card numbers while using a public wireless network, make sure there is a locked padlock icon at the bottom right corner of the browser window, and verify that the Web address begins with https: (the "s" stands for secure).
Turn off your wireless network when you're not using it
When you’re finished using the internet or email but still using other programs on your computer, disable your wireless connection. If you use an external Wi-Fi card, simply remove it. If you have an internal Wi-Fi card, click on the connection icon then click “disable.”
