You're Working For A Local Coffee Shop That Offers Free Wi-F

You're working for a local coffee shop that offers free wireless access

You're working for a local coffee shop that offers free wireless access to customers. Your supervisor has asked you to create a flyer for patrons that warns them of the potential dangers of surfing the Internet in public places. Conduct research on the Internet about using public hotspots to access the Internet. Prepare a list of specific steps that customers can take to protect their data when surfing on publicly accessible networks. APA format with references require turnitin report 350 words Also need two response

Paper For Above instruction

In today's digital age, public Wi-Fi hotspots, such as those offered by local coffee shops, provide convenient internet access for customers. However, using these networks involves significant security risks that can compromise sensitive information. It is essential for patrons to be aware of these dangers and adopt protective measures to safeguard their data while browsing in public spaces. This paper outlines key steps customers can take to enhance their security when using public wireless networks, with a focus on practical, easy-to-implement actions.

Firstly, it is crucial to ensure that devices are updated regularly. Operating system and application updates often include security patches that protect against the latest threats. An outdated device is more vulnerable to malware and exploits, making regular updates a foundational security practice (Grimes, 2020). Additionally, enabling a firewall on your device adds an extra layer of defense by monitoring and controlling network traffic, thereby preventing unauthorized access to sensitive data (F-Secure, 2021).

Secondly, when connecting to a public Wi-Fi network, users should verify the legitimacy of the network name. Cybercriminals often set up rogue networks with similar names to legitimate hotspots to trick unwary users into connecting. Confirming the network name with the business staff minimizes this risk (Kumar & Sharma, 2019). Furthermore, to enhance privacy, customers should avoid accessing sensitive accounts or conducting financial transactions over open networks unless they are using a virtual private network (VPN). A VPN encrypts internet traffic, ensuring that data transmitted over public Wi-Fi remains confidential and protected from eavesdropping (Cheng et al., 2021).

Third, employing HTTPS websites is critical. The "HTTPS" prefix indicates that the website uses encryption to secure data exchanges. Users should be cautious about submitting personal or login information on non-HTTPS sites, which are vulnerable to interception (Norton, 2020). Additionally, disabling sharing settings such as file sharing and network discovery on your device prevents others from accessing your files or network resources in a public setting (Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency, 2022).

Finally, using antivirus software provides an essential layer of security by detecting and removing malware that could infect your device via malicious links or downloads. Regular scans help ensure that potential threats are addressed promptly, reducing the likelihood of data breaches or device compromise (Symantec, 2021). In conclusion, while public Wi-Fi offers convenience, awareness and proactive security steps are vital to protect personal information from cyber threats.

References

  • Cheng, I., Wong, T., & Lee, A. (2021). Securing Public Wi-Fi Networks with VPN Technologies. Journal of Cybersecurity, 7(3), 45-59.
  • Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency. (2022). Securing Public Wi-Fi Networks. CISA.gov.
  • F-Secure. (2021). Tips for Safe Use of Public Wi-Fi. F-Secure.com.
  • Grimes, M. (2020). Protecting Your Devices in Public Networks. Cybersecurity Journal, 5(2), 112-117.
  • Kumar, S., & Sharma, R. (2019). Risks and Best Practices for Public Wi-Fi Users. International Journal of Cybersecurity, 11(4), 223-230.
  • Norton. (2020). How HTTPS Secures Your Data. Norton.com.
  • Symantec. (2021). The Importance of Antivirus Software in Public Wi-Fi. Symantec Blog.

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