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Public Wi-Fi in cafes, airports, hotels and shopping centres is convenient, but open networks can be snooped on or spoofed. A VPN adds a layer of protection, along with HTTPS sites and sensible device settings. Here's what the risks are and how to stay safe.
Key takeaways
- The risk: open networks can be snooped on or spoofed.
- What helps: a VPN, HTTPS sites, and turning off auto-join for unknown networks.
- Alternative: using your phone's mobile hotspot is often safer than open Wi-Fi.
- Avoid sensitive tasks like banking on open Wi-Fi if you're not using a VPN or mobile data.
The risk
Open networks can be snooped on or spoofed. On an open network, others may be able to see unencrypted traffic. Attackers can also set up fake hotspots with names like "Free Airport Wi-Fi" to intercept connections.
What helps
A VPN, HTTPS sites, and turning off auto-join for unknown networks.
| Protection | What it does |
|---|---|
| VPN | Encrypts all traffic between your device and the VPN server |
| HTTPS websites | Encrypts traffic to that website |
| Turn off auto-join | Stops your device connecting to unknown or fake networks |
| Device updates | Fixes security vulnerabilities |
| Multi-factor authentication | Protects accounts even if a password is stolen |
Alternative
Using your phone's mobile hotspot is often safer than open Wi-Fi. Mobile data is encrypted between your phone and the network, and you control the hotspot password.
Step by step: stay safe on public Wi-Fi
- Confirm the correct network name with staff before connecting.
- Connect your VPN before doing anything else.
- Check websites use HTTPS (look for the padlock).
- Avoid banking or entering sensitive details unless you're on a VPN or mobile data.
- Forget the network when you're done, so your device doesn't auto-join later.
Turn off auto-join
- iPhone: Settings, then Wi-Fi, tap the info button next to the network, and turn off Auto-Join.
- Android: Settings, then Network & internet, then Wi-Fi, choose the network, and turn off auto-connect (wording varies by phone).
Official advice
The Australian Cyber Security Centre (cyber.gov.au) advises being careful with public Wi-Fi, avoiding sensitive activities on untrusted networks, and using mobile data or a VPN where possible.
Setting up auto-connect on a VPN
Many VPN apps can connect automatically on untrusted Wi-Fi. Turn this on so you don't forget. See how to set up a VPN on iPhone.
Hotel and airport Wi-Fi
Hotel and airport networks often require you to sign in through a web page (a captive portal). Connect, sign in, then turn on your VPN. If the VPN won't connect, try a different protocol in the app.
Is a VPN enough?
A VPN protects your connection, but not against phishing or malware. Keep your device updated, don't download unexpected files, and be wary of pop-ups asking for logins.
Travelling overseas
When travelling, a travel eSIM or roaming plan can let you use mobile data instead of public Wi-Fi. Check whether VPNs are allowed in your destination; Smartraveller has country advice.
Do you need a VPN at home too?
At home, it's often optional. See do you need a VPN at home?.
Signs of a fake hotspot
Be suspicious of networks with names very similar to the venue's official network, networks that appear in places with no venue Wi-Fi, or sign-in pages asking for unusual details such as your email password or card details. Real captive portals typically ask you to accept terms, enter a room number, or sign up with an email address, not to log in to your email account. If something feels off, use mobile data instead.
Sharing settings
On laptops, turn off file and printer sharing when on public networks. On Windows, set the network profile to Public. On Mac, open System Settings and make sure sharing features like File Sharing are off. On phones, turn off AirDrop or Nearby Share receiving from everyone, or limit it to contacts.
Charging your phone in public
Public USB charging points are generally convenient, but some security agencies advise using your own charger plugged into a power socket, or a power bank, to reduce risk. Carrying a power bank also means you won't depend on public charging when travelling.
Using public Wi-Fi for everyday tasks
Reading news, checking maps or streaming over HTTPS on public Wi-Fi is generally low risk. Save banking, shopping and changing passwords for a VPN, mobile data or your home network.
Frequently asked questions
Is public Wi-Fi safe in Australia?
It can be risky, because open networks can be snooped on or spoofed. A VPN, HTTPS sites and turning off auto-join reduce the risk.
Do I need a VPN on public Wi-Fi?
It's a good idea, especially for sensitive tasks. Using your phone's mobile hotspot is another safer option.
Can someone see what I do on public Wi-Fi?
On open networks, others may see unencrypted traffic. HTTPS protects what you do on a site, and a VPN encrypts all your traffic to the VPN server.
How do I stop my phone joining public Wi-Fi automatically?
Turn off Auto-Join or auto-connect for that network in your phone's Wi-Fi settings, and forget networks you no longer use.
Sources
Official sources this article relies on, checked October 15, 2026. Rules and prices change, so confirm details at the source.
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Travelling overseas? Our sister site compares travel eSIMs, roaming and local SIMs so you can use mobile data instead of open Wi-Fi.