Technology

Mistakes to avoid if you just have to use public Wi-Fi

Published

2 years ago

January 29, 2024

Mistakes to avoid if you just have to use public Wi-Fi

Sometimes, we find ourselves in a situation where we urgently need an internet connection, but we are not at home or at work. We might want to do some online tasks, such as checking our email, browsing social media, or streaming our favorite show. However, what if the only available option is a public Wi-Fi network that we are not familiar with? How can we use it safely without exposing our privacy and security?

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Free Wi-Fi sign (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

This is a dilemma that many people face, even those who are experts in cybersecurity. Case in point, Blackhat, the world’s largest hacker conference held annually in Las Vegas, brings together thousands of cybersecurity professionals from all over the world. They attend the conference to learn about the latest cyberthreats and solutions. But even these skilled professionals can fall victim to the hazards of public Wi-Fi.

Blackhat convention (Blackhat) (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

The event organizers have a playful way of exposing this vulnerability. They monitor the network traffic and display the names of those who have been tricked by a fake or compromised Wi-Fi hotspot. This is the notorious “Wall of Sheep.”

The Wall of Sheep showcases the unfortunate consequences of network security negligence. The people on this wall are not willing participants, but careless attendees whose private data was captured and revealed to everyone.

These stories should serve as a stark warning to anyone who is concerned about the potential pitfalls of using public Wi-Fi. Even the most experienced cybersecurity professionals can be vulnerable to unsecured networks.

Illustration of data and a hacker (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

MORE: 5 WAYS TO SECURELY ACCESS WI-FI ON YOUR PHONE WHILE TRAVELING

Real-life examples of hackers’ victims at Blackhat

You may wonder what the big deal is about ending up on the Wall of Sheep, but it can be far worse. Some of the horror stories include:

The hotel hotspot trap

One attendee checked into a nearby hotel during Blackhat week and decided to catch up on work using the hotel’s open Wi-Fi network. Unbeknownst to them, a hacker had set up a rogue hotspot, mirroring the hotel’s official network. The hacker intercepted the attendee’s login credentials and gained access to sensitive work emails and confidential documents.

The overconfident developer

A seasoned developer known for his coding skills headed to Blackhat thinking he was invincible. He ignored warnings and connected to a rogue network named “SecureConferenceWiFi.” Confident in his skills, he used the same weak password for all his accounts. Little did he know that his email and social media accounts were compromised. This turned out to be an embarrassing leak of sensitive project data and personal conversations.

The crypto investor’s nightmare

There was also a crypto investor who attended to participate in discussions about blockchain technology. During the conference, he went to access his online wallet and entered his passphrase on an unsecured network. Within minutes, a hacker intercepted his credentials and emptied his wallet, leaving him penniless and devastated.

Illustration of Wi-Fi being used (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

MORE: HOW TO CHECK IF SOMEONE IS STEALING YOUR WI-FI

You become sitting prey the moment you connect to a typical public Wi-Fi hotspot

Unless you’re using a VPN service, even locked or secured public Wi-Fi networks are not completely safe. Public Wi-Fi hotspots are usually free or secured Wi-Fi networks available in public spaces like shopping malls, libraries, coffee shops, airports and hotels, to name a few.

Scam hotspots are historically easily identified by generic names like “Free Wifi” to lure people to connect to their networks. Cybercriminals have gotten savvier by using similar names of popular legitimate hotspots. If you aren’t paying close attention, you will be the next victim.

Preventative tactics for avoiding bad public Wi-Fi hotspots

Most public Wi-Fi hotspots in the US don’t require payment information, so that’s a red flag that a hacker might be trying to steal personal and financial information from you.
Regardless of how it is named, most closed networks have a lock symbol indicating a Wi-Fi network that is more secure with the password available for patrons or provided by the establishment.
Usually, legitimate public networks have a prompt that shows up in your browser that asks you to agree to terms and conditions of use while on their network too.
Pay attention to the website address you’re going to:
Most websites, especially those with sensitive data, usually employ their own encryption techniques, so they will likely have HTTPS in the web address so you can always check your URL before logging in.For example: HTTPS://www.paypal.com not HTTP://www.paypal.com. Sometimes browsers autofill commonly visited sites, but you can then click on the web address bar at the top or bottom of your browser and read how the URL is actually showing up once you are directed there.
Pay attention to the spelling of the website – there can be similar sites made to look like official sites. Could be ‘bannkofamerica’ instead of ‘bankofamerica.com’
Most websites, especially those with sensitive data, usually employ their own encryption techniques, so they will likely have HTTPS in the web address so you can always check your URL before logging in.For example: HTTPS://www.paypal.com not HTTP://www.paypal.com. Sometimes browsers autofill commonly visited sites, but you can then click on the web address bar at the top or bottom of your browser and read how the URL is actually showing up once you are directed there.
For example: HTTPS://www.paypal.com not HTTP://www.paypal.com. Sometimes browsers autofill commonly visited sites, but you can then click on the web address bar at the top or bottom of your browser and read how the URL is actually showing up once you are directed there.
Pay attention to the spelling of the website – there can be similar sites made to look like official sites. Could be ‘bannkofamerica’ instead of ‘bankofamerica.com’

Of course, you don’t have control over every scenario, and maybe using a public Wi-Fi hotspot is your last but necessary resort, especially while traveling. With a secure VPN service, you connect to a public Wi-Fi network without much worry. See my expert review of the best VPNs for browsing the web privately on your Windows, Mac, Android & iOS devices.

A person using Wi-Fi on their laptop (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

MORE: CLEVER TRICK TO MAKE A CONNECTION FASTER ON YOUR WI-FI NETWORK

5 common attacks on people using public Wi-Fi

1) ‘Evil twin’ attacks

Imagine being at your favorite coffee shop and connecting to what appears to be their free Wi-Fi network. When you begin to browse the web, you are completely unaware that you’ve fallen victim to an “evil twin attack” as hackers have set up a malicious hotspot with the same name as a legitimate network. The attacker is now able to intercept data, steal your login credentials, and launch further attacks.

Solution

When you use a VPN service, it establishes a level of encryption between the end-user and a website regardless of what network you join, so any intercepted data cannot be read by the hacker without a correct decryption key.

2) ‘Man-in-the-middle’ attacks (MITM)

“Man-in-the-middle” attackers position themselves between your device and the intended server. Unbeknownst to you, this allows them to intercept all data traffic, including every email, chat message, or login attempt. Your sensitive data, private conversations, and financial transactions are now all available to them.

Solution

Because VPN services encrypt your data, even if hackers intercept your data, it isn’t accessible to them. VPN services work both for your personal computer and mobile devices, which means the protection of a VPN service can travel anywhere you go.

3) The ‘packet sniffing’ hack (Software reads your data)

Whenever you connect to any network, your devices send data packets that can be read by free software, such as Wireshark. When you’re on an unencrypted network, hackers can use free software, such as Wireshark, to read those data packets. Ironically, with such software, you can analyze web traffic to find security problems and vulnerabilities that need to be fixed or exploited.

Solution

Even though hackers can still see that there are data packets being sent, if you’re using a VPN, your data is traveling through a secure and encrypted tunnel, protecting against exposure and use by hackers. Because your data is encrypted, it renders your information virtually useless to hackers. And because they can see that you’re connecting via a VPN service, hackers can see that you would be harder to hack.

4) The ‘sidejacking’ hack

When a hacker employs the sidejacking technique, they essentially take the information gleaned from packet sniffing to be used in real-time, usually on-location, to exploit its victim. Once intercepted, the data is then used to gain access to the original destination website or app.

The hacker uses packet sniffing to read network traffic and ‘steal cookies.’ Cookies are files that a website stores on your mobile phone, tablet, or computer as you browse the web. Cookies store a variety of information, from language preferences to personal data such as name, physical address, or email address.

This allows websites to customize your experience. Once hackers find nonsecure socket layer cookies (just HTTP:// not HTTPS://), the information sent to the website or app by you is then captured. This allows the hacker to use what is captured to exploit private information and gain access to this and other sites.

Solution

Hackers scan web traffic to spot unencrypted or exploitable encrypted data, so having a secure VPN service most likely takes your data ‘out of the running’ for most hackers as they can see it is encrypted. And even if they do try, information going from and to your device is encrypted, so they will likely be unable to access the information itself.

5) Malware infection

Public Wi-Fi networks are often secured poorly or entirely unsecured. This allows cybercriminals the ability to infect your device with various forms of malicious software, including spyware and ransomware. Once infected, your data is at risk of theft or encryption. Your device can also be turned into a puppet for remote control.

Solution

If you forget to turn on your VPN service while out and about, you might panic at the thought of all the potential compromises outlined above. If, however, you’re running an antivirus program in the background of your device, you’d still be protected should a hacker infiltrate your device. Having antivirus software on your devices will make sure you are stopped from clicking on any potential malicious links, which may install malware on your devices and allow hackers to gain access to your personal information. Find my review of Best Antivirus Protection here.

A woman using a laptop (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

Kurt’s key takeaways

Understanding the risks and taking precautions while using public Wi-Fi can protect you and your data. Keep in mind that using your cell phone and its data network should be your preference if a login is required or if you will be sharing personal or financial data. Remember that unless you are in Las Vegas at Blackhat, you won’t find yourself on a “Wall of Sheep,” but it could be something much worse.

Have you ever encountered a risky situation while using public Wi-Fi? If so, how did you handle it? Let us know by writing us at Cyberguy.com/Contact.

For more of my tech tips & security alerts, subscribe to my free CyberGuy Report Newsletter by heading to Cyberguy.com/Newsletter.

Ask Kurt a question or let us know what stories you’d like us to cover.

Answers to the most asked CyberGuy questions:

Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson is an award-winning tech journalist who has a deep love of technology, gear and gadgets that make life better with his contributions for Fox News & FOX Business beginning mornings on “FOX & Friends.” Got a tech question? Get Kurt’s CyberGuy Newsletter, share your voice, a story idea or comment at CyberGuy.com.

Technology

Grubhub confirms data breach amid extortion claims

Published

11 hours ago

January 27, 2026

Press Room

Grubhub confirms data breach amid extortion claims

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Food delivery platform Grubhub has confirmed a recent data breach after unauthorized actors accessed parts of its internal systems.

The disclosure comes as sources tell BleepingComputer the company is now facing extortion demands linked to stolen data.

In a statement to BleepingComputer, Grubhub said it detected and stopped the activity quickly.

“We’re aware of unauthorized individuals who recently downloaded data from certain Grubhub systems,” the company said. “We quickly investigated, stopped the activity, and are taking steps to further increase our security posture.”

Grubhub added that sensitive information, such as financial details or order history, was not affected. However, the company declined to answer follow-up questions about when the breach occurred, whether customer data was involved or if it is actively being extorted.

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RANSOMWARE ATTACK EXPOSES SOCIAL SECURITY NUMBERS AT MAJOR GAS STATION CHAIN

Grubhub confirmed a data breach after unauthorized actors accessed parts of its internal systems, prompting an investigation and heightened security measures. (Michael Nagle/Bloomberg via Getty Images)

What Grubhub has confirmed so far

While details remain limited, Grubhub confirmed several key points. It has brought in a third-party cybersecurity firm and notified law enforcement. Beyond that, the company has stayed largely silent. That lack of detail has raised concern, especially given Grubhub’s recent security history. Just last month, the company was linked to scam emails sent from its own b.grubhub.com subdomain. Those messages promoted a cryptocurrency scam promising large returns on Bitcoin payments. Grubhub said it contained the incident and blocked further unauthorized emails. It did not clarify whether the two events are related.

Sources link the breach to ShinyHunters extortion

According to multiple sources cited by BleepingComputer, the ShinyHunters hacking group is behind the extortion attempt. The group has not publicly commented on the claims and declined to respond when contacted. Sources say the attackers are demanding a Bitcoin payment to prevent the release of stolen data. That data reportedly includes older Salesforce records from a February 2025 breach and newer Zendesk data taken during the most recent intrusion. Grubhub uses Zendesk to run its online customer support system. That platform handles order issues, account access and billing questions, making it a valuable target for attackers.

How stolen credentials may have enabled the attack

Investigators believe the breach may be tied to credentials stolen during earlier Salesloft Drift attacks. In August 2025, threat actors used stolen OAuth tokens from Salesloft’s Salesforce integration to access sensitive systems over a 10-day period. According to a report from Google Threat Intelligence Group, also known as Mandiant, attackers used that stolen data to launch follow-up attacks across multiple platforms. “GTIG observed UNC6395 targeting sensitive credentials such as AWS access keys, passwords and Snowflake-related access tokens,” Google reported. ShinyHunters previously claimed responsibility for that campaign, stating it stole roughly 1.5 billion records from Salesforce environments tied to hundreds of companies.

Why this breach still matters

Even if payment data and order history were not affected, support systems often contain personal details. Names, email addresses and account notes can be enough to fuel phishing attacks or identity scams. More importantly, this incident highlights how older breaches can continue to cause damage long after the initial attack. Stolen credentials that are never rotated remain a powerful entry point for threat actors.

Ways to stay safe after the Grubhub data breach

If you use Grubhub or any online delivery service, a few smart steps can reduce your risk after a breach.

1) Update your password and stop re-use

Start by changing your Grubhub password right away. Make sure you do not reuse that password anywhere else. Reused passwords give attackers an easy path into other accounts. A password manager can help here. It creates strong, unique logins and stores them securely so you do not have to remember them all.

Next, see if your email has been exposed in past breaches. Our No. 1 password manager pick includes a built-in breach scanner that checks whether your email address or passwords have appeared in known leaks. If you discover a match, immediately change any reused passwords and secure those accounts with new, unique credentials.

Check out the best expert-reviewed password managers of 2026 at Cyberguy.com.

ILLINOIS DHS DATA BREACH EXPOSES 700K RESIDENTS’ RECORDS

The food delivery platform says it quickly stopped the intrusion but has not disclosed when the breach occurred or whether customers were targeted. (Leonardo Munoz/VIEWpress)

2) Turn on two-factor authentication

If two-factor authentication (2FA) is available, enable it. This adds a second step when you sign in, such as a code sent to your phone or app. Even if a hacker steals your password, two-factor authentication can stop them from getting in.

3) Watch closely for phishing attempts and use strong antivirus software

Be alert for emails or texts that mention orders, refunds or support issues. Attackers often use stolen support data to make messages feel urgent and real. Do not click links or open attachments unless you are certain they are legitimate. Strong antivirus software can also help block malicious links and downloads before they cause harm.

The best way to safeguard yourself from malicious links that install malware, potentially accessing your private information, is to have strong antivirus software installed on all your devices. This protection can also alert you to phishing emails and ransomware scams, keeping your personal information and digital assets safe.

Get my picks for the best 2026 antivirus protection winners for your Windows, Mac, Android and iOS devices at Cyberguy.com.

4) Remove your data from people-search sites

Consider using a data removal service to reduce your online footprint. These services help remove your personal details from data broker sites that attackers often use to build profiles. Less exposed data means fewer tools for scammers to exploit.

While no service can guarantee the complete removal of your data from the internet, a data removal service is really a smart choice. They aren’t cheap, and neither is your privacy. These services do all the work for you by actively monitoring and systematically erasing your personal information from hundreds of websites. It’s what gives me peace of mind and has proven to be the most effective way to erase your personal data from the internet. By limiting the information available, you reduce the risk of scammers cross-referencing data from breaches with information they might find on the dark web, making it harder for them to target you.

Check out my top picks for data removal services and get a free scan to find out if your personal information is already out on the web by visiting Cyberguy.com.

Get a free scan to find out if your personal information is already out on the web: Cyberguy.com.

5) Ignore crypto messages using trusted brands

Be skeptical of any cryptocurrency offers tied to familiar companies. Grubhub was previously linked to scam emails promoting crypto schemes, which shows how often attackers abuse trusted names. Legitimate companies do not promise fast returns or pressure you to act immediately.

6) Monitor your Grubhub account and email activity

Check your Grubhub account for anything that looks unfamiliar. Watch for unexpected password reset emails, order confirmations or support messages you did not request. Attackers often test stolen data quietly before making bigger moves.

7) Secure the email linked to your Grubhub account

Your email account is the key to password resets. Change that password and enable two-factor authentication if it is not already on. If attackers control your email, they can regain access even after you change other passwords.

8) Stay alert for delayed scams tied to the breach

Breach data is often reused weeks or months later. Phishing attempts may appear long after headlines fade. Treat any future messages claiming to reference Grubhub support, refunds or account issues with extra caution.

These steps will not undo a breach, but they can limit how attackers exploit stolen information and reduce your risk going forward.

FIBER BROADBAND GIANT INVESTIGATES BREACH AFFECTING 1M USERS

Sources tell BleepingComputer the Grubhub breach is tied to extortion demands involving allegedly stolen customer support data. (Gabby Jones/Bloomberg via Getty Images)

Kurt’s key takeaways

Grubhub’s confirmation puts an official stamp on what sources have warned about for weeks. While the company says sensitive data was not affected, unanswered questions remain. As extortion-driven breaches rise, transparency and rapid credential rotation matter more than ever. What stands out most is how past compromises continue to create new risks. When access tokens live too long, attackers do not need to break in again. They simply walk back through an open door.

If companies stay quiet after breaches, how can customers know when it is time to protect themselves? Let us know by writing to us at Cyberguy.com.

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Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson is an award-winning tech journalist who has a deep love of technology, gear and gadgets that make life better with his contributions for Fox News & FOX Business beginning mornings on “FOX & Friends.” Got a tech question? Get Kurt’s free CyberGuy Newsletter, share your voice, a story idea or comment at CyberGuy.com.

Technology

TikTok is still down, here are all the latest updates

Published

23 hours ago

January 27, 2026

Press Room

TikTok is still down, here are all the latest updates

Starting early Sunday morning, TikTok’s now under new ownership US arm started breaking down just a couple of days after Oracle & Co took the reins. Its For You page algorithm is suddenly unreliable, while features like comments are failing to load or loading slowly, and publishing new videos seems nearly impossible for many people.

Rumors of censorship targeting anti-ICE protesting or attempting to block discussion of Jeffrey Epstein appear to be misguided (even the governor of California is resharing misinformation now), with problems blocking traffic to all kinds of videos and messages on the service through Monday night.

Read on below for the latest updates about the ongoing TikTok problems.

Technology

Malicious Google Chrome extensions hijack accounts

Published

23 hours ago

January 27, 2026

Press Room

Malicious Google Chrome extensions hijack accounts

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Cybersecurity researchers have uncovered a serious threat hiding inside Google Chrome.

Several browser extensions pretend to be helpful tools. In reality, they quietly take over user accounts. These extensions impersonate popular human resources and business platforms such as Workday, NetSuite and SAP SuccessFactors. Once installed, they can steal login data and block security controls designed to protect users.

Many people who installed them had no warning signs that anything was wrong.

WHY CLICKING THE WRONG COPILOT LINK COULD PUT YOUR DATA AT RISK

Cybersecurity researchers warn that fake Google Chrome extensions are silently hijacking user accounts by stealing login data and bypassing security protections. (Bildquelle/ullstein bild via Getty Images)

The fake Chrome extensions to watch out for

Security researchers from Socket’s Threat Research Team identified five malicious Chrome extensions connected to this campaign. The add-ons were marketed as productivity or security tools, but were designed to hijack accounts.

The extensions include:

DataByCloud Access
Tool Access 11
DataByCloud 1
DataByCloud 2
Software Access

We reached out to Google, and a spokesperson told CyberGuy that the extensions are no longer available on the Chrome Web Store. However, some are still available on third-party software download sites, which continues to pose a risk. If you see any of these names installed in your browser, remove them immediately.

Why malicious Chrome extensions look legitimate

These malicious add-ons are designed to look legitimate. They use professional names, polished dashboards and business-focused descriptions. Some claim to offer faster access to workplace tools. Others say they restrict user actions to protect company accounts. Privacy policies often promise that no personal data is collected. For people juggling daily work tasks or managing business accounts, the pitch sounds helpful rather than suspicious.

What these extensions actually do

After installation, the extensions operate silently in the background. They steal session cookies, which are small pieces of data that tell websites you are already logged in. When attackers get these cookies, they can access accounts without a password. At the same time, some extensions block access to security pages. Users may be unable to change passwords, disable accounts or review login history. One extension even allows criminals to insert stolen login sessions into another browser. That lets them sign in instantly as the victim.

Why malicious Chrome extensions are so dangerous

This attack goes beyond stealing credentials. It removes the ability to respond. Security teams may detect unusual activity, but cannot fix it through normal controls. Password changes fail. Account settings disappear. Two-factor authentication tools become unreachable. As a result, attackers can maintain access for long periods without being stopped.

How to check for these extensions on your computer

If you use Google Chrome, review your extensions now. The process only takes a few minutes.

Open Google Chrome
Click the three-dot menu in the top right corner
Select Extensions, then choose Manage Extensions
Review every extension listed

Look for unfamiliar names, especially those claiming to offer access to HR platforms or business tools.

WEB SKIMMING ATTACKS TARGET MAJOR PAYMENT NETWORKS

Malicious Chrome add-ons disguised as productivity tools targeted users of popular business platforms like Workday, NetSuite and SAP SuccessFactors. (Photo by S3studio/Getty Images)

How to remove suspicious Chrome extensions

If you find one of these extensions, remove it immediately.

Open Manage Extensions in Chrome
Find the suspicious extension
Click Remove
Confirm when prompted

Restart your browser after removal to ensure the extension is fully disabled. If Chrome sync is enabled, repeat these steps on all synced devices before turning sync back on.

What to do after removing the extension

Removal is only the first step. Change passwords for any accounts accessed while the extension was installed. Use a different browser or device if possible.

A password manager can help you create strong, unique passwords for each account and store them securely. This reduces the risk of reused passwords being exploited again.

Check out the best expert-reviewed password managers of 2026 at Cyberguy.com.

Finally, review account activity for unfamiliar logins, locations or devices and be sure to follow the steps below to stay safe moving forward.

Ways to stay safe going forward

Simple habits can significantly reduce your risk.

1) Limit browser extensions

Only install extensions you truly need. The fewer extensions you use, the smaller your attack surface becomes.

2) Be cautious with add-ons

Avoid extensions that promise premium access or special tools for enterprise platforms. Legitimate companies rarely require browser add-ons for account access.

3) Check permissions carefully

Be wary of extensions that request access to cookies, browsing data or account management. These permissions can be abused to hijack sessions.

4) Review extensions regularly

Check your browser every few months and remove tools you no longer use or recognize.

WHATSAPP WEB MALWARE SPREADS BANKING TROJAN AUTOMATICALLY

Several fake browser extensions were removed from the Chrome Web Store after researchers linked them to account takeover attacks. (Photo Illustration by Serene Lee/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images)

5) Use strong antivirus software

Strong antivirus software can help detect malicious extensions, block suspicious behavior and alert you to browser-based threats before damage occurs.

Get my picks for the best 2026 antivirus protection winners for your Windows, Mac, Android and iOS devices at Cyberguy.com.

6) Consider a data removal service

If your work or personal information has been exposed, a data removal service can help reduce your digital footprint by removing your details from data broker sites. This lowers the risk of follow-up scams or identity misuse.

Check out my top picks for data removal services and get a free scan to find out if your personal information is already out on the web by visiting Cyberguy.com.

Get a free scan to find out if your personal information is already out on the web: Cyberguy.com.

7) Avoid third-party download sites

Do not reinstall extensions from third-party websites, even if they claim to offer the same features. These sites often host outdated or malicious versions.

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Kurt’s key takeaways

Browser extensions can be useful, but this research shows how easily they can also be abused. These fake Chrome add-ons did not rely on flashy tricks or obvious warnings. They blended in, looked professional and quietly did their damage in the background. The good news is that you do not need to be a tech expert to protect yourself. Taking a few minutes to review your extensions, remove anything unfamiliar and lock down your accounts can make a real difference. Small habits, repeated regularly, go a long way in reducing risk. If there is one takeaway here, it is this: convenience should never come at the cost of security. A clean browser and strong account protections give you back control.

How many browser extensions do you have installed right now that you have never looked at twice? Let us know by writing to us at Cyberguy.com.

Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson is an award-winning tech journalist who has a deep love of technology, gear and gadgets that make life better with his contributions for Fox News & FOX Business beginning mornings on “FOX & Friends.” Got a tech question? Get Kurt’s free CyberGuy Newsletter, share your voice, a story idea or comment at CyberGuy.com.