You should have some fear when you connect to a public Wi-Fi hotspot. When you access a network you become a member of that network and that can mean that others can access your computer.
A friend of mine connected to a business owner’s Wi-Fi network a few weeks ago and was startled see his computer and shared folders listed in the business owner’s “My Network Places” view in Windows Explorer while he was helping him do some configuration. He usually switches off “file and printer sharing” but he obviously forgot to do that before connecting to the hotspot.
If you are on Windows XP or Vista, you should always ensure that “file and printer sharing” is unchecked because it is possible for shared folders to be accessed by others.
Tips for Increasing Your Security
- Before connecting to a public hotspot using Windows XP or Vista, update your firewall or wireless network adapter to disable “File and Printer Sharing.”While you can turn off “file and printer sharing” on your wireless network adapter properties, the simplest way to disable “file and printer sharing” is to go to “Start > Control Panel > Windows Firewall.” Ensure that the firewall is set to “On” and that “Don’t allow exceptions” is also checked. “File and printer sharing” is normally listed as an exception so by disabling all exceptions you also disable “file and printer sharing.”When you get back to your office or home network all you need to do is uncheck “don’t allow exceptions” and you will be able to share files with others on your trusted network.
- Never, enter a credit card number while connected to a hotspot.
- Don’t use a hotspot for banking or other sensitive transactions.
- Don’t connect to any “unsecured” networks. These networks offer no encyption so any data sent from your computer can be intercepted and read unless the website you are communicating with is using https.
- Ensure you have Anti-Malware software and your operating system has current updates.
- Turn off your computer’s wireless networking when not in use.
More Helpful Information
Source: Microsoft
7 tips for working securely from wireless hotspots
Source: Wi-Fi Planet
Wi-Fi Security Issues Up Close
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