Security risks of using Public Wi-Fi abroad - Protect yourself with Vi

When travelling abroad, staying connected to the internet is a necessity. Whether you need to navigate a new city, stay in touch with loved ones, or check important emails, Wi-Fi is your lifeline. Public Wi-Fi networks, often available in airports, hotels, cafés, and other public places, can seem like a convenient and cost-effective solution. But have you ever wondered, if it is safe to use public Wi-Fi?

The answer is no. Public Wi-Fi networks come with numerous risks. They can expose your personal data, compromise your financial security, and even leave your devices vulnerable to cyberattacks. In this blog, we’ll explore the public Wi-Fi security risks and discuss how Vi can help you stay connected safely with our international roaming packs.

Why Public Wi-Fi is Not Safe

Using public Wi-Fi abroad might seem harmless, but it’s a minefield of security vulnerabilities. Here are the major public Wi-Fi security risks:

Man-in-the-Middle Attacks

One of the most common dangers of public Wi-Fi is a man-in-the-middle (MITM) attack. In this scenario, hackers intercept the communication between your device and the Wi-Fi network. This gives them access to sensitive data, such as your login credentials and credit card details.

Unsecured Networks

Public Wi-Fi networks often lack strong encryption. Without encryption, the data you send and receive can be easily intercepted by malicious individuals. This risk of using public Wi-Fi increases exponentially when making financial transactions or entering passwords.

Fake Wi-Fi Hotspots

Hackers can set up fake hotspots with names similar to legitimate ones, tricking unsuspecting users into connecting. Once connected, all your internet activity is at their mercy. This is why it’s crucial to know how to securely use public Wi-Fi.

Malware Distribution

Public Wi-Fi networks are often exploited to distribute malware. A single click on a malicious link or pop-up can infect your device, potentially causing significant damage.

Data Theft

Cybercriminals can exploit public networks to steal your data, including emails, photos, and confidential documents. The public Wi-Fi risks make your personal and professional information vulnerable to a plethora of threats.

How to Safely Use Public Wi-Fi

Although the risks of using public Wi-Fi are high, there are ways to minimise them. Follow these tips on how to safely use public Wi-Fi:

1. Use a Virtual Private Network (VPN): A VPN encrypts your internet connection, making it harder for hackers to intercept your data.
2. Avoid Sensitive Transactions: Never enter financial or personal information on a public network.
3. Turn Off Sharing Features: Disable file sharing and other connectivity options on your device.
4. Use HTTPS Websites: Ensure the websites you visit are secure and begin with “https://”.
5. Connect to Known Networks Only: Avoid connecting to unfamiliar or suspicious Wi-Fi hotspots.

But the best way to protect yourself is to avoid public Wi-Fi security risks altogether. That’s where Vi’s international roaming packs come in.

Stay Connected Securely with Vi

At Vi, we understand that staying connected while travelling is essential. Instead of risking your security on public networks, our international roaming packs let you enjoy seamless connectivity without worrying about the danger of public Wi-Fi.

Here’s why Vi is your ideal travel companion:

Unlimited Data

Vi’s international roaming packs provide unlimited data, so you can stream, browse, and work without limits. There’s no need to rely on unsecure public networks.

Affordable International Calling

With our packs, you can get unlimited outgoing and incoming calls. Stay connected with your family, friends, or colleagues without any extra charges.

Wide Coverage

Our roaming packs cover up to 122 countries for postpaid users and 104 countries for prepaid users. Irrespective of the destination you choose, we’ve got you covered.

Vi International Roaming Packs:

At Vi, we understand the requirements that an international traveller has, and our postpaid and prepaid plans help address such connectivity requirements conveniently. Here’s how you can activate International Roaming on your device:

• You can activate the International Roaming Service after arriving at your destination through the Vi app or website by connecting to a local Wi-Fi.
• The service typically takes about 30 minutes to activate after submitting the request.
• Once activated, you may need to restart your phone to latch onto the available network.

Now, although you can do so upon landing at your destination, it is advisable that you activate the service before leaving India to avoid any potential delays or hassles.

At Vi, we have a great range of International Roaming plans that are perfect for travellers like you. Since the plans, and their particulars would differ based on the country you are visiting, it is advisable that you visit our website and choose a relevant option for your travels. Here’s how you can purchase the most suitable roaming plans:

• Visit the Vi International Roaming Plans page on the Vi app or website.
• Select your travel destination and the duration of your trip.
• Choose from the recommended international roaming packs tailored to your needs.
• Roaming services will be activated from your selected date, ensuring you're ready before your international travel.

With these postpaid and prepaid international roaming packs, you can bypass using public Wi-Fi risks and enjoy secure internet access wherever you go.

Why Choose Vi for Your International Connectivity?

When it comes to staying connected abroad, Vi stands out for multiple reasons:

1. Reliability: With Vi, you can trust that your connection will always be stable and secure.
2. Convenience: Forget the hassle of finding safe networks; with our unlimited data, you’re always online.
3. Security: By using Vi’s roaming packs, you eliminate the public Wi-Fi security risks, protecting your data from cyber threats.
4. Cost-effectiveness: Our competitive rates ensure you get the best value for money.

A Real Risk Worth Avoiding

The statistics speak for themselves. According to a Norton study, 53% of public Wi-Fi users have fallen victim to identity theft or cybercrime. This alarming number underscores why public Wi-Fi is not safe. When you’re travelling, your focus should be on enjoying your trip—not worrying about hackers.

Travelling abroad doesn’t mean compromising your security. The danger of public Wi-Fi is real, but with Vi’s international roaming packs, you can stay connected securely without relying on risky public networks. Whether it’s unlimited data, uninterrupted calls, or global coverage, we ensure you have everything you need to travel worry-free.

Next time you find yourself abroad, skip the risks of using public Wi-Fi and choose Vi for seamless, secure connectivity. After all, your safety and convenience are our top priorities. Pack your bags, activate your Vi international roaming plan, and explore the world without limits. So, are you ready to travel safely? Visit our website or app to explore our international roaming options and stay connected the Vi way!