Clipping of news on Brazilian Culture, Law and Citizenship
9/14/2016
This article was translated by an automatic translation system, and was therefore not reviewed by people.
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The use of open wireless internet networks can pose a risk to privacy. Check out tips to use and still preserve your safety
The use of Wi-Fi is becoming more and more part of everyday life. In many places, we find connections offered by companies or shared phones and tablets. However, when they do not require any type of password or registration, they can offer threats. If you use open internet networks, you should take care not to expose your data and endanger your privacy.
According to Nelson Barbosa Júnior, security engineer at Norton, a company that provides solutions for digital security, open Wi-Fi can pose risks for both the users and the owners. For the user, it is possible that the connection is a way of capturing data and applying punches. "What is the person sharing the network looking for?" He asks.
In some cases, however, companies, public agencies or individuals may leave the signal unprotected for lack of attention. For them, the risks can come from those who access the network, because computers, smartphones and even connected TVs can be invaded.
Here are some tips to keep your data secure if you use Wi-Fi open:
Use a trusted VPN service
One of the possibilities for maintaining security is to use a Virtual Private Network (VPN), or Virtual Private Network, that establishes connection between two or more devices and allows the transmission of data encrypted by a private "tunnel". According to professor Moacyr Regys Simões Moreira, master in Teleinformatics Engineering, VPNs "shield" the information and do not allow access by those outside this "tunnel".
Do not just download any application for VPN, because the risk can come from the server to which the user connects. "When you enter the server of the person who is offering the VPN, it is possible that it will capture some information," explains the professor. Moacyr indicates that users are looking for trusted servers and using the latest operating system updates to avoid security breaches.
Do not access bank accounts or shop
On unknown open networks, without authentication, avoid using banking services. In them, theft of banking information and interception of financial transactions may occur.
Watch for information when downloading apps
According to Nelson Barbosa Júnior, most of the time, viruses are downloaded because users do not pay attention to the set of information about the applications. Before downloading, note who the developer is, and if he does not invade privacy by requiring access to many device functions that are not required by the application.
Beware of the veracity of the sites
You should check the veracity of the pages accessed. If the site is true, a padlock appears on the navigation bar. By clicking on the icon, the developer company can be identified. Still, according to Nelson Barbosa Júnior, there is a means of this authentication being falsified. Norton offers an open and free tool that identifies threats on websites.
Source: The People
To access the site The People, click here.
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This article was translated by an automatic translation system, and was therefore not reviewed by people.