Ah, the joys of modern travel—soaring above the clouds, you can now browse the internet, check emails, or stream your favourite shows, all thanks to in-flight Wi-Fi.

But before you log in and start enjoying these conveniences at 30,000 feet, it's crucial to consider your digital safety.

The reality is that in-flight Wi-Fi can be a hacker's playground, and without the right precautions, your personal information could be at risk.

While we may rely on our devices more than ever, we all need a little guidance regarding cybersecurity, especially in less familiar environments like an aeroplane.

So, let's dive into some essential dos and don'ts to keep your devices and data secure while using in-flight Wi-Fi.

How do you stay safe using in-flight Wi-Fi? Credit: Shutterstock

Verify the Network

It's easy to click on a Wi-Fi network that seems legitimate, but hackers are cunning.

They can set up networks with names very similar to the airline's official Wi-Fi, hoping to trick passengers into connecting.

Before you join any network, double-check with the airline staff to confirm the correct network name. A simple question could save you from a world of digital trouble.

Use a VPN

A Virtual Private Network (VPN) is your best friend when it comes to online privacy.

It encrypts your internet connection, making it much harder for hackers to snoop on your activities.

While VPNs can be less stable in flight due to the nature of satellite connections, it's still better to have them on than not. Ensure your VPN is running before accessing any sensitive information.

Stick to Encrypted Sites

Always look for 'HTTPS' in the website address.

That extra 'S' stands for 'secure' and means the site uses encryption to protect the data you send and receive.

This is particularly important when entering passwords or payment details.

Encrypted sites are much more difficult for hackers to intercept, so make it a habit to visit only HTTPS sites, whether in the air or on the ground.

Don't Download Files

In-flight Wi-Fi is not the place to download files, especially sensitive ones.

The connection is often unsecured, and hackers can easily intercept data transfers.

If you need certain files during your flight, download them beforehand or wait until you're on a secure network post-landing.



While smartphones have made our lives easier, they have also opened up new avenues for hackers to exploit.

In a previous story, a security consultant revealed five common mistakes that could allow any hacker to infiltrate your phone within seconds. You can read more about the story here.

Key Takeaways

• In-flight Wi-Fi can expose your devices to security risks, such as hackers who might access your information and spread malware.
• The advice includes using VPNs to secure connections and sticking to encrypted websites.
• Travellers should verify they are connecting to the correct Wi-Fi network and avoid using networks with names similar to the official airline network.
• It’s advised not to download files using in-flight Wi-Fi to maintain security.

Have you used in-flight Wi-Fi before? What precautions do you take to ensure digital safety? Share your experiences and tips in the comments below.

 

[Luckyus]

Or turn your bloody phone off.