In 2025, many people find themselves working remotely. Often, this will involve working in a public place like a cafe, airport, or library, which can offer remote workers flexibility. However, it also exposes you to risks like unsecured Wi-Fi, unattended devices, and data interception. This post will show you how to remain safe online when working in a public place. Keep reading to find out more.
Verify & Secure Your Network Connection
Public Wi-Fi can be useful, but it can also be dangerous. Public Wi-Fi is often unsecured, which means that your data is at risk. Additionally, “evil twin” hotspots are becoming more prevalent, where a cybercriminal sets up a network posing as a legitimate network. To ensure safety, make sure you select the right network name (SSID), look for HTTPS in the address bar, and turn off auto-connect to prevent accidental logins.
Lock Down Your Devices & Workstation Setup
Your physical and digital setup matters, so you need to make sure you lock down your devices and workstation. Be sure to use automatic lock/screen timeouts, disable sharing, and use strong device passwords. In addition to this, choose seats where your screen is not exposed (shoulder surfing is a growing issue in the US), and be wary of public USB ports – malware could be installed in a scam known as “juice jacking.” Following this advice helps ensure your devices are not the weak link in a public-space productivity environment.
Use Secure Tools & Maintain Good Digital Hygiene
There are various tools you can use to protect yourself when using public Wi-Fi. A VPN creates a secure connection, allowing you to shield your traffic from hackers – you can get a VPN Chrome extension to protect your browser activity. Antivirus software can protect you against harmful software but be sure to keep it up to date. You should also use endpoint security and encrypted cloud storage to enhance safety when using public Wi-Fi.
Stay Vigilant: Monitor Your Activity & Prepare for Incidents
Finally, you need to stay vigilant and monitor your accounts for unusual activity. Be sure to back up any critical files and enable remote-wipe capabilities so that you can wipe your devices if they are lost or stolen. On top of all this, be sure to avoid unsecured charging ports and always be aware of your surroundings. A 2025 survey found that 20% of Americans reported or suspected a cybersecurity incident from public Wi-Fi usage, so it is vital that you know how to stay safe when connected to public Wi-Fi.
While public Wi-Fi enables remote workers to work in different environments, it can also create cybersecurity vulnerabilities. By following the advice in this post, you can avoid common security issues when working in a public place and browse the web with confidence, knowing that you are protecting your sensitive information and devices.
