Connecting to an "unsecured" wireless network?

Question

What are the risks?

Answer 1

Unsecured 'wi-fi' (or 'hotspot') is not a big problem if you only surf around, and general stuff.

Do NOT however connect to any of your personal log-in sites as all data between you & the router will be in plain text; so anyone with a packet sniffer can intercept, copy and brute force attack your passwords...and that's likely not what you'd like.

If you must connect & get mail or other possible sensitive data transmissions, get onto a VPN first, then all data is secure even over the hotspot.

Answer 2

Putting your business out there where anybody with much tech savvy could find out what you're doing, and where you're going on the internet.. plus, sloooow connection.

Answer 3

If you have a good firewall and antivirus, there isn't much risk. When I'm out and about with my laptop, I go online using unsecured wireless networks. I've had no problems.

Answer 4

Online certification-http://expertrating.net/