Are banking apps safe on public WiFi? This is a common question among users of cell phones and laptops, since all our activities are tracked on the Internet. It is also common among users with social media profiles, such as Facebook and Twitter.
Most banking apps are secured by creating end-to-end encryption in order to ensure user privacy. This is the reason why all the information exchanged on banking apps cannot be read by anyone. With an end-to-end encryption security, it becomes easier for users to secure their private banking information.
Are banking apps safe on public WiFi? This is a common question among users of cell phones and laptops, since all our activities are tracked on the Internet. It is also common among users with social media profiles, such as Facebook and Twitter. More often than not, they find that public WiFi hotspots are not only a threat to their private data, but also they are dangerous for the mobile devices and the computer systems.
If you have been using public WiFi for business, you know how easy it is to download banking apps from the Internet and to install them. However, some people do not know the kind of risks these banking apps can carry. They might not know that many of the security features in these banking apps are easily compromised.
If you use the Internet regularly for business, such as checking your e-mails or browsing websites, it is a good idea to choose a high-speed Internet connection and to use a device that is protected by a firewall. Of course, the device you use to access the Internet should also be a firewall enabled device. The device should be equipped with a password for safety.
Be sure to avoid using the Internet during peak hours in a crowded restaurant or in a park, or at night. It is also important to make sure that the WiFi network is not restricted to a specific class of users. For example, you cannot use it if your use a certain payment method like credit card or debit card.
Do not open your browser while you are using the Internet. This includes instant messaging, chat rooms, instant messenger, IM services, instant-messaging, and VoIP (Voice Over Internet Protocol). If you want to avoid surprises, be sure to use a reputable Internet service provider or a broadband connection that offers protection against viruses and spyware.
Be sure to make sure that your mobile phone, laptop, or tablet is turned off when you are not using it. Before leaving home for the day, be sure to shut down all other applications that may still be active when you return home. Be sure to disable your USB modem before you use the Internet.
Avoid using your banking apps when you are alone. While you are using your bank apps, if you are approached by someone who wants to steal your personal data, you can easily make use of the features on your device to block the computer’s remote access.
Do not use a wireless hotspot while you are using banking apps, especially if the network has a very high risk rating. This includes public hotspots that are owned by well-known corporations. If you can, opt for a wired Ethernet connection instead.
If you want to avoid strangers at public hotspots, be sure to turn your device’s WiFi feature on. You can check this option during the setup process in most public networks.
Are banking apps safe on public WiFi? Yes, they are safe for general use, as long as you take precautionary measures. But it is always best to use encryption and anonymization whenever you access any kind of data online.