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Use a VPN when connecting to public Wi-Fi
A VPN is a free or cheap app that scrambles your connection when you use public Wi-Fi in coffee shops, hotels, and airports. Without one, anyone else on the same network could potentially read your emails or login details.
Why this matters
Public Wi-Fi networks in coffee shops, hotels, and airports are often unsecured. Without a VPN, anyone else on the same network could potentially intercept your login credentials, emails, and banking details. A VPN encrypts your connection so your data cannot be read in transit.
How to do it
- Choose a reputable VPN provider: Mullvad, ProtonVPN, or NordVPN have strong privacy track records. Avoid free VPNs — many log and sell your data.
- Install the VPN app on your phone and laptop.
- Turn on the VPN every time you connect to a public Wi-Fi network — in a hotel, airport, café, or anywhere you do not control the network.
- Check that the VPN is active before entering any login credentials or accessing banking apps on public Wi-Fi.
- Your home broadband does not require a VPN — the risk applies specifically to public and shared networks.
Need a more detailed walkthrough?
Our step-by-step guide explains each action in full detail, with confirmation steps and related tasks.
View full step-by-step guide →Cyber Essentials framework
This task falls under the Secure Configcontrol, one of five areas assessed in the UK's Cyber Essentials scheme. Completing it counts toward your Cyber Essentials alignment. Create a free account to track your progress across all five areas.
On an Android phone? Using a VPN on Android →
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