Can You Trust Airplane Wi-Fi? -
Flying is not what it was in many respects, particularly as regards technology. Not only passengers today use their electronic devices during the flight, but many aircraft now come with Wi-Fi networks so travelers can stay connected to 30,000+ feet above the ground. We talked about public Wi-Fi networks and the degree of risk they can be, but while you might think twice about connecting to Wi-Fi in your local Starbucks, you might not give the same consideration for Internet access on board your next flight. Although it seems that the network on a plane would carry a lower risk of safety to that of a network on the ground, you'd be surprised how easy it is for the Wi-Fi plane to put your personal data at risk .
What makes the risky flight Wi-Fi?
in recent years, airlines have expanded Wi-Fi access on planes to allow customers the ability to stay connected for the duration of their flight. Although these networks can sometimes be slow and unpredictable, that it is possible to be online while they are in the sky is an interesting option for travelers, especially those who fly for commercial purposes that could need to work on the plan. Wi-Fi in the air is almost never free, costing between $ 2 and $ 49 depending on the type of device you are using and your flight. In a time when we are all connected through our phones, tablets and laptops around the clock, a little extra money for the bombing maintain this connection is worth it for many people - not to mention the pure wonder can post on Instagram or message from a loved one in the air. Although the ability to connect is a great thing to have, unfortunately, flight Wi-Fi networks are just as vulnerable as any other public network unsecured Wi-Fi.
Earlier this year, a USA Today reporter wrote about his experience hacked during a commercial flight. He discovered that he had arrived when the pirate in question - who had performed the action to prove how precarious flight Wi-Fi is - told him about it detailed its online activity during the flight, but for most, someone hijacking a network board is not going to broadcast that fact. Although the flight Wi-Fi offered by companies such as GoGo uses encryption when the transaction process where users pay for access, it does not offer encryption for the remaining time. And it's just as easy for someone to set up a false system that usurps the real network in the hope that unwary travelers to connect to the site, allowing them unlimited access to these devices.
How do I use Wi-Fi on a safe flight?
using an Internet security program can be useful, especially when it comes to ensuring features like file sharing are turned off and you have a strong firewall in place. That said, at this point, the best option is to use a virtual private network (VPN), if you have access to one at your company or you bought one for your own personal use. Since these networks create a secure private network for you to use while you are connected to a public network, such is the safest bet if you choose to sign in flight - especially if you plan to do everything involves sensitive data, such as sending emails or accessing your online bank account. If you do not have a VPN to use, then it is best to avoid access to any websites or files you want to keep it private and just stick to casual web browsing. Or, better yet, take advantage of a rare opportunity to disconnect from the online world and read a book, watch a movie in flight or get shuteye. Once you're back on the ground, your connected world will be waiting for you.
Want to learn more about keeping your mobile device safe while you're on the road? Follow our mobile security blog for tips and information.
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