Public Wi-Fi has become a lifeline for remote workers, students, and everyday internet users. Whether at airports, coffee shops, malls or university campuses, free access to the internet feels like a win. But that convenience often comes with a silent cost, one that many users overlook until it’s too late.
Cybersecurity threats are rising across West Africa. Phishing, malware injections, data interceptions and man-in-the-middle attacks have become more sophisticated. In many cases, public Wi-Fi networks serve as the ideal entry point for cybercriminals looking to exploit unsuspecting users.
Still, that doesn’t mean you have to avoid public Wi-Fi entirely. The key is to use it intelligently.
Know What You’re Connecting To
The first rule is to verify the network. Hackers often set up rogue hotspots with names that mimic legitimate ones. A café might offer “Cafe123_FreeWiFi” but a hacker nearby could set up “Cafe123_WiFi” to trick people into connecting. Always confirm the exact network name with staff and avoid connecting to any network that doesn’t require a password.
Limit What You Do Online
If you’re just catching up on the news or browsing social media, the risks are lower. But logging into your bank app, accessing sensitive business files or sending confidential emails over public Wi-Fi is risky, even if the network appears secure. Save those tasks for when you’re on a trusted network or mobile data.
Use a VPN
Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) encrypt your data and hide your IP address, making it difficult for hackers to intercept your activity. For professionals and entrepreneurs working in Lagos, Accra or beyond, a reliable VPN should be non-negotiable. It’s a small investment that can prevent large problems.
Turn Off Auto-Connect
Devices often reconnect automatically to known Wi-Fi networks, but that convenience can work against you. Disable auto-connect on your phone, tablet or laptop. Manually choosing when and where to connect puts you in control and helps avoid accidental logins to spoofed networks.
Use Two-Factor Authentication
Even if your credentials are compromised, two-factor authentication (2FA) adds an extra layer of security. It’s particularly important for email, banking and social media accounts. Platforms like Google, Facebook and many Nigerian fintech apps now offer 2FA by default — activate it if you haven’t already.
Avoid File Sharing and Airdrop
Keep your device invisible. Turn off file sharing, Airdrop or Bluetooth connectivity when you’re in a public place. Cybercriminals often scan nearby devices for open sharing settings, and a few seconds of vulnerability is enough to exploit.
Log Out When You’re Done
Once your browsing session ends, log out of any accounts you accessed and disconnect from the Wi-Fi. This prevents session hijacking and reduces your exposure. Also consider clearing your browser cache and history if you entered sensitive information.
Public Wi-Fi isn’t going away. In fact, as digital adoption increases across Nigeria and Ghana, more establishments will offer it as a standard service. But convenience shouldn’t come at the expense of caution.
As a region that’s fast embracing e-commerce, online banking and remote work, cybersecurity must become a personal responsibility. The smartest users are not the ones who avoid technology but the ones who know how to navigate it wisely.
A free connection isn’t truly free if it costs you your data, your money or your peace of mind.
