I see a lot of local coffee shops & places that have free wireless internet if you take your laptop there. Is this safe to use? Does it allow other users access to your computer in any way? I do have a firewall & spyware programs.
2007-01-14 08:15:57 · 7 answers · asked by Cris Tee 2 in Computers & Internet ➔ Other - Computers
Public Wi-Fi networks are the "Thai Brothels" of the internet.
At the very least, make sure you don't have any files or folders shared.
2007-01-14 08:25:19 · answer #1 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
As safe as anywhere, you should have a forewall and good anti-virus software on an up-to-date operating system with all the current security patches before you use any network connection.
There's nothing special about being on a public network, you are probably on one now. You just need to use the normal level of paranoia, there's always some script kiddy out there trying to port-scan you, it doesn't matter if you are at home on DSL or in an internet cafe or coffee shop using the free Internet access.
Always use a firewall.
Never share any drives.
Never share printers.
Don't install file sharing software.
Don't use MS IE, unless you absolutely must. Use Firefox (I'm also using no-script, adblock plus, flashblock and a few other security add-ons), if you can't use that then use Avant and enable the blockers. Using IE without protection is as good as giving your machine to someone.
If you can use Linux then do so, the vast majority of attacks target MS Windows exclusively.
Sit with your back to a wall, preferably in a corner, and be aware of people watching what you are doing.
But still, the free wireless at your local coffee shop is no worse than the DSL or cable connection at home.
2007-01-14 08:20:28 · answer #2 · answered by Chris H 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
not likely, in case you employ Vista for a pc (which you will), it is going to ask you upon connecting what form of connection is it (homestead, paintings, or Public). choose Public and it turns off all sharing and community discovery so as that a hacker can not browse your pc. in case you employ XP, ensure you have community sharing grew to become off and you employ a password on your consumer account.
2016-12-16 04:38:09 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Yes, it is safe. Don't be bothered by everything you see on TV. Those "hackers" usually find people that don't have security on their computer and so on. You only need a basic security to make it quite safe.
2007-01-14 08:19:15 · answer #4 · answered by Paulius L 1 · 1⤊ 0⤋
It depends on the company some companys log all actions that you do. If they wanted to they could record your password. But most places wont do that because it is illegal.
2007-01-14 08:21:08 · answer #5 · answered by Dustin 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
no it won't as long as your file sharing is not ON. if you didn't otuch any settings on your pc, then it's off. it's always off when you buy a new computer.
2007-01-14 08:19:33 · answer #6 · answered by Correct 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
No.
2007-01-14 08:18:45 · answer #7 · answered by S K 7 · 0⤊ 1⤋