When “Free Wi-Fi” Isn’t Really Free

We cannot know everything and prevent every danger, but what we could do is apply some reasonable precautions to prevent finding ourselves in trouble. Technology today is advancing at a pace we cannot normally keep up with, having all the other obligations in life. There is one thing we could prevent very easily and cheaply, that is being robbed of our possessions and even identity, simply by using a VPN.

5/8/20251 min read

A world map is spread out on a wooden surface with various travel-related items placed around it. A vintage-style camera with a strap sits in the top right corner, and several banknotes are arranged beside it. In the top left, there's a small telescope. At the bottom left, a compass is positioned next to a small potted cactus plant. The overall setup suggests a theme of travel and exploration.
A world map is spread out on a wooden surface with various travel-related items placed around it. A vintage-style camera with a strap sits in the top right corner, and several banknotes are arranged beside it. In the top left, there's a small telescope. At the bottom left, a compass is positioned next to a small potted cactus plant. The overall setup suggests a theme of travel and exploration.

In 2019, a solo traveler named Julia checked into a charming café in Prague. The ambiance was perfect: exposed brick walls, the scent of espresso, and the comfort of a strong internet connection labeled “Free_City_WiFi.” Without thinking, she connected, uploaded some pictures to Instagram, and browsed for a nearby ATM.

The next day, her bank sent an alert: two unauthorized transactions from a store in Hong Kong — over $2,000 spent.

It turned out the Wi-Fi network wasn’t run by the café at all. A nearby hacker had set up a spoofed network with a similar name, capturing login credentials and session cookies of every user who connected.

Here is how to be connected - safely:

  • Always use a VPN - A VPN (Virtual Private Network) encrypts your internet connection, shielding your data even if the Wi-Fi is compromised.

  • Use trustworthy hotspots only - Ask staff for the correct network name. Avoid anything like “Free WiFi” or “Open Network 123” unless verified.

  • Keep a backup connection - Get a local SIM card or an eSIM with roaming data.

  • Use offline apps smartly - Download Google Maps Offline for key areas.

  • Use translation apps like Google Translate in offline mode.

  • Turn off auto-connect: Disable your device’s setting to automatically connect to open networks, which is a common way for attackers to hijack your connection without you knowing.

Staying connected is vital — not just for posting your travel photos, but for staying safe, reachable, and informed. But always remember: the same tech that keeps you connected can expose you to risks if you’re careless.

A bit of planning, a VPN, and a backup SIM can mean the difference between a smooth journey — and a nightmare of fraud, data loss, or disconnection when you need help the most.

I can personally recommend a reliable and trustworthy VPN provider that has been on the market for a long time - NordVPN.

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