Whether your router at home is on the fritz and you need to work from your local coffee shop or you’re bored at the airport, a public Wi-Fi network can seem like an oasis in the desert. However, it’s critical to understand that, while these can be incredibly convenient, they can also be incredibly dangerous. Unfortunately, many are unaware of the serious dangers that utilizing public networks can lead to. As such, the following blog explores what you should know about the risk of identity theft and the importance of connecting with an experienced Michigan identity theft lawyer to help you recover your identity during these difficult times.
What Are the Dangers Associated With Public Wi-Fi Networks?
In many instances, public Wi-Fi is something that many people may not think twice before joining. However, it’s important to understand that while many connections are encrypted, meaning it is scrambled, thus making it difficult to hack into your device, it’s still possible. Unfortunately, many hackers are continually learning and creating new ways to bypass security measures to steal the information of unsuspecting consumers.
When a Wi-Fi network is not secured, meaning a hacker has either set up a fake hotspot to lure you in, such as a “coffee shop network.” When you connect to this network, it can leave you vulnerable to identity theft, as hackers can easily infiltrate your device and take the information needed to steal your identity.
Thieves often intercept data transmitted over unsecured public networks, like credit card information, log-ins, and messages containing sensitive information.
What Should I Do if I Believe My Identity Was Compromised?
If you have reason to believe that your identity was compromised as a result of using a public Wi-Fi network, understanding the steps you should take to protect your information is critical.
Generally, one of the first things you should do when you suspect that you are a victim of identity theft is to secure your accounts. You should immediately change the passwords to your financial, email, and social media accounts, and, if you have not done so already, enable two-factor authentication. This adds another layer of protection to your accounts by requiring a secondary form of verification, often in the form of a code sent to your phone number.
You should also place fraud alerts on your credit report, as this informs creditors that you are a victim of identity theft and to take additional steps to confirm your identity before opening accounts in your name. This can help prevent identity thieves from stealing your information to take out loans or make purchases in your name.
Finally, you should connect with an experienced attorney with Lyngklip & Associates to discuss your legal options. Our firm can assist you in the fight to reclaim your identity while disputing the inclusion of fraudulent information on your credit reports. Connect with us today to discuss your circumstances with a member of our dedicated team.
