Connect Securely to Wi-Fi

We Can DoIT Together Awareness - Secure WiFi Icon

In today's digital age, internet access is an essential part of our daily lives. The convenience of public Wi-Fi in places like coffee shops, airports, and libraries is undeniable. However, this convenience comes with a significant responsibility, as public Wi-Fi networks can be hotspots for cyber threats, putting your personal information at risk. In this article, we'll explore the potential risks of unsecured Wi-Fi networks and provide essential tips to help you stay protected, especially in the context of higher education.

Staying connected on campus starts with choosing the right Wi‑Fi.
For the safest and most reliable experience, students are encouraged to use eduroam. It’s secure, easy to set up, and works automatically across campus—and at many universities worldwide.

eduroam is the recommended Wi‑Fi network for students, faculty, and staff.

It’s designed for everyday campus use and provides a secure, encrypted connection that helps protect your personal information.

✅ If you’ll be on campus regularly, eduroam should be your first choice.

Eduroam offers several benefits that other networks don’t:

  • 🔒 Secure and encrypted to protect your data
  • 🚀 More reliable than open or guest networks
  • ðŸÂÎ One-time setup — no need to log in every day
  • ðŸÊµ Works at other universities that support eduroam

Once you connect, your device will automatically reconnect whenever eduroam is available.

Getting connected only takes a few minutes:

  1. Click the get started button below:

     

  2. Follow the instructions for "Students, Faculty, or Staff Members"
  3. Sign in with your campus email address and password
  4. Accept the security certificate if prompted

That’s it! You’ll stay connected securely moving forward.

Public Wi‑Fi (like coffee shops or airports) is often unsecured and can put your information at risk.

If you use public Wi‑Fi:

  • Avoid logging into sensitive accounts
  • Look for websites that use HTTPS
  • Turn off auto‑connect and file sharing
  • Use a VPN when possible

Whenever available, choose eduroam instead of public Wi‑Fi.

Using Public Wi-Fi

When connecting to public Wi-Fi, it's crucial to be aware of the potential risks. Here are some of the dangers associated with unsecured Wi-Fi networks:

  1. Unauthorized Access: Without the proper security measures, hackers can gain access to your device or the information transmitted over the network.
  2. Data Interception: Cybercriminals can intercept the data you send and receive, potentially exposing sensitive information.
  3. Malware Distribution: Public Wi-Fi networks can serve as a breeding ground for malware, which can infect your device and compromise your data.
  4. Phishing Attacks: Hackers can create fake Wi-Fi networks that mimic legitimate ones, leading you to unknowingly connect to a malicious network.
  5. Man-in-the-Middle Attacks: In these attacks, cybercriminals position themselves between you and the target server, intercepting data and potentially altering it.
  6. Eavesdropping: Your online activities, including login credentials, browsing history, and location data, can be monitored by malicious actors.

As students and faculty in higher education institutions, it's essential to take precautions when using public Wi-Fi to safeguard your personal information and sensitive data. Here are some key steps to protect yourself:

  1. Avoid Accessing Sensitive Information: Limit the use of public Wi-Fi for activities that don't involve sensitive data, such as online shopping or accessing personal emails.
  2. Check for 'HTTPS': Before entering any login details or personal information, ensure that the website's URL starts with 'HTTPS' and displays a padlock symbol in the address bar.
  3. Utilize Antivirus Software: Keep your device protected by using reliable antivirus software to detect and remove malware.
  4. Use a VPN: A Virtual Private Network (VPN) can create a secure and encrypted connection, ensuring your data remains confidential, even on unsecured networks.
  5. Log Out of Personal Accounts: Always log out of your personal accounts when you're done using them on public Wi-Fi networks.
  6. Educate Yourself: Stay informed about the latest cybersecurity threats and best practices, ensuring you're up to date with the latest protection strategies.

Considering the unique circumstances of higher education institutions, here are some specific recommendations to keep your campus network and personal data secure:

  1. Use Multi-Factor Authentication: Whenever possible, enable multi-factor authentication for your online accounts. This extra layer of security, such as receiving a text message with a PIN, can significantly enhance your protection.
  2. Avoid Public Wi-Fi for Sensitive Activities: Refrain from using public Wi-Fi, such as those in airports or coffee shops, for accessing confidential information. Treat these areas as potentially compromised and use them for less sensitive online activities.
  3. Regularly Monitor Your Financial Statements: Keep a close eye on your campus credit card and bank statements. Any discrepancies could be indicators of account breaches. If you notice any irregularities, report them immediately.