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1. Connect only to legitimate wi-fi hot-spots - "Know your network"
Identity thieves and hackers will attempt to steal your credit card numbers or break into your computer by creating a fake hot-spot that looks similar to your local coffee shop's or book store's hot-spot (like naming the hot-spot or SSID something like "tmoblie" or "wayport"). If you connect to these impostor hot-spots identity thieves and hackers can connect directly to your computer and view your passwords, logins or even install a virus. They can also take control of your browser and make it open up a fake website that asks for your credit card and personal information, the classic "man in the middle attack."
To protect yourself make sure you don't connect to a hot spot where there isn't a sign of a legitimate provider or store and be sure not to connect to generic hot-spots that contain the default name for a wireless router like "linksys." Ask the store clerk responsible for managing the hot-spot if the store has a hot-spot and the proper name for the hot-spot. Program your wi-fi card or computer not to connect to any available hot-spot and turn off your wi-fi connection when working offline. In the end, make sure you know your network.
- Encrypt sensitive data
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