Public Wi-Fi use 'requires SSL encryption'

Businesses whose employees often work in public Wi-Fi hotspots have been advised to only log on to websites with SSL encryption.

When using a service which requires sensitive information, such as email, individuals should make sure that SSL encryption is in place on the site to avoid data security being breached, Wi-Fi Planet advised.

A certificate of information or a padlock next to the URL in the browser should be displayed, as well as a https address, rather than a http one.

Encrypted hotspots should also be used to prevent unauthorised access from other members of the public.

Customers as well as companies have also been advised to make sure their financial transactions and data exchanges are all SSL encryption-protected.

"Watch out for SSL certificates with errors, which Internet Explorer should notify you of. Fake hotspots may not use proper certificates or SSL at all," Wi-Fi Planet said.

The resource also suggested using a virtual private network (VPN) when in public for extra security, which can be created in-house or provided through a reliable web hosting service.

VPNs create a secure network connection when in public through encryption.

Written by Debra Hastings-Henry