Privacy is very important
Access to public computers in libraries is convenient and a great resource for library users. But before you use the internet, take time to understand the privacy risks and learn how to spot potential problems. Take a moment to be certain the path ahead is clear and watch for warning signs. Enjoy the internet with greater confidence, knowing you’ve taken the right steps to safeguard and protect your privacy while using a public computer.
Privacy Tips
Protect Personal Information
Every individual who takes all the possible public WiFi security precautions are going to run across issues from time to time. That’s why it’s imperative to keep your Internet security software installed, up-to-date and running on your machine. The top consumer security software will also offer business protection solutions, so you can protect yourself while you’re out and about, and your servers back at the office, all at the same time.
Practice Security for Privacy
Enable the “Always Use HTTPS” option on websites that you visit frequently, or that require you to enter some kind of credentials. Remember that hackers understand how people reuse passwords. Most websites that require an account or credentials have the “HTTPS” option somewhere in their settings.
Turn off Sharing
When connecting to the Internet at a public place, you’re unlikely to want to share anything. You can turn off sharing from the system preferences or Control Panel, depending on your OS, or let Windows turn it off for you by choosing the “Public” option the first time you connect to a new, unsecured network.
Keep WiFi Off When You Don’t Need It
Even if you haven’t actively connected to a network, the WiFi hardware in your computer is still transmitting data between any network within range. If you’re just using your computer to work on a Word or Excel document, keep your WiFi off.
Use a VPN (virtual private network)
By using a VPN when you connect to a public Wi-Fi network, you’ll effectively be using a ‘private tunnel’ that encrypts all of your data that passes through the network. This can help to prevent cybercriminals – that are lurking on the network – from intercepting your data.
One recommendation in keeping your network secure. You can purchase your own person WiFi and bring it anywhere.
A couple of software recommendations
If you have any questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to give us a call or drop us an email. We are also available in online chat which is located right on our website.
