Security News > 2020 > October > Wi-Fi security: FBI warns of risks of using wireless hotel networks
Wi-Fi networks in hotels typically favor guest convenience over strong security practices, says the FBI. As the coronavirus pandemic and lockdown have forced a shift to remote work, many people are working not just from home but from public locations.
In a new warning about hotel Wi-Fi, the FBI provides several tips on how to protect yourself when using such a public network.
The often lax security found in hotel Wi-Fi networks can expose both personal and work data to different types of security threats.
Since there is no hotel industry standard for secure Wi-Fi access, guests who telework must adopt their own security measures to protect their devices, data, and business network.
If available, use your phone's wireless hotspot instead of hotel Wi-Fi.Before traveling, ensure that your computer's operating system and software are up to date on all patches, that important data is backed up, and that your OS has a current, well-vetted security or antivirus application installed and running.