Virgin Media O2 has sounded the alarm for holidaymakers this October half term, urging them to steer clear of unknown Wi-Fi networks. The telecoms company’s latest research reveals a staggering 79% of Brits connect to unfamiliar networks while abroad, with nearly half (49%) unaware of the potential security threats.
Public or unsecured Wi-Fi can be a playground for hackers, allowing them to infiltrate devices and swipe personal data or unleash viruses. In August alone, Virgin Media O2’s Advanced Security service thwarted over seven million attempts to access dangerous websites and blocked some 50,000 cyber attacks.
With the school break approaching, the company’s connectivity chief, Gareth Lister, advises: “Although it’s tempting when in need of a quick WiFi connection, apply caution and avoid joining unfamiliar networks. Just as you would with personal interactions, apply the principle of ‘stranger danger’ when thinking about who and what you connect your phone to.”
Mr Lister has advised the public on cyber security, explaining, “Connecting to unfamiliar networks can leave users vulnerable to cyber attacks. Instead, try to use a secure network that you trust – for example at your hotel, or check to see if your mobile provider offers inclusive roaming like O2 does in the EU at no extra cost.”
He has called for people to be “extra vigilant” against suspect emails and website links, particularly those with “lookalike” characters from non-Latin character sets, typographical errors, or unknown domains. To enhance security further, he recommends, “Always protect your accounts with strong and unique passwords and to protect yourself further, look at adding two-factor authentication so there is an extra layer of protection on your device.”, reports Bristol Live.