WiFi security for the user

[350X]

I know about securing your own WiFi network.

I wonder about what should I worry about using free public WiFi???

What kind aof data or info could be seen or stolen???

 

[Martimus]

Anything you transmit to/from your computer on an open WiFi network is at risk of being captured by a hacker...

If you communicate with your bank/credit union over an open public network, the SSL packets are transmitted without any "additional" encryption provided by the wireless security. While this does not effect the existing SSL encryption, it does mean that the hacker would simply need to decrypt the SSL packets to get to your data. While this is still not easy to do, it's been proven that it's possible to decrypt SSL data.

From the Experts: SSL Hacked!

 

[350X]

If your dealing with good hackers, they will get ya if they really want too.

Talking in general, my Mom will be using the WiFi mostly.

Any steps needed taken to avoid the accidental release of info beyond the hacker type looking for private info???

 

[Slug]

Anything passing through an unsecured connection can be intercepted and monitored. All it takes is packet sniffing software installed on another network node.

 

[Martimus]

To be honest, the only way I know to secure private data on a free public network is to either have her connect across a secure VPN (complicated and resource intensive)... or to avoid connecting to any web site that requires private data.

Unfortunately free public wifi, by definition, means that data will be transmitted as clear text. Even weak encryption (WEP, WPA) would be preferable to clear text but if it's free public wifi then it's unlikely that this will be available for your mother.