Public Wi-Fi is convenient but not safe by default. Open networks at cafés, airports, and hotels can let others on the same network intercept your data, and attackers can set up fake hotspots to capture what you send. The simplest fix is a VPN, which encrypts your connection so nothing readable leaves your device.
The real risks of public Wi-Fi
- Interception on open networks. When a network has no password, data sent without proper encryption can potentially be read by others connected to it.
- Fake "evil twin" hotspots. Attackers create networks with trustworthy-sounding names ("Airport_Free_WiFi") to trick you into connecting, then capture your traffic.
- Session and credential theft. Logging into accounts on a compromised network can expose your details.
- Snooping by the network operator. Whoever runs the hotspot can potentially see unencrypted activity.
Why HTTPS isn't enough on its own
Most websites now use HTTPS, which encrypts traffic to that site — a real improvement. But it doesn't hide which sites you visit, doesn't protect every app, and won't save you if you connect to a malicious hotspot. A VPN adds a second, comprehensive layer by encrypting everything leaving your device.
How a VPN protects you on public Wi-Fi
A VPN wraps your entire connection in an encrypted tunnel, so even on an open or compromised network, anyone intercepting your traffic sees only scrambled data. It also hides your IP and, with a kill switch, ensures nothing leaks if the connection drops. This is the single clearest case for using a VPN — see also do I need a VPN on my phone?
Staying safe in practice
Turn on your VPN before connecting to public Wi-Fi, avoid networks you can't verify, keep file sharing off, and don't do sensitive tasks unprotected. FortisVPN runs quietly in the background and protects up to 10 devices on one subscription. Try it free for 7 days.
Frequently asked questions
Q. Can someone steal my data on public Wi-Fi? On open or compromised networks, unprotected data can be intercepted. Using a VPN encrypts your traffic so intercepted data is unreadable.
Q. Is hotel or airport Wi-Fi safe? Treat it like any public network — convenient but untrusted. Use a VPN, especially for logins, banking, or anything sensitive.
Q. Do I need a VPN if the Wi-Fi has a password? A password limits who joins but doesn't protect you from others already on the network. A VPN protects you regardless.
Last updated: 14 June 2026
