How secure are wireless hotspots?

Given their wide-open nature, theres no way to guarantee privacy on wireless hotspots. That means you have to operate under the assumption that everywhere you surf, everything you IM, and everything you email is potentially available for everyone else to see.

What are the risks of accessing the Internet from wireless hotspots?

The most serious threats are packet sniffing and wi-phishing. Packet sniffing is a form of wire-tap applied to computer networks. As long as you and the hacker are on the same public network, they can sniff information packets in unencrypted wireless transmissions, and decode your passwords. In a wi-phishing scam, a bogus wireless logon page appears legitimate, but the only real part of a wi-phishing scam is the damage to you and your family.

What can I do to protect myself?

By making common sense choices and putting safeguards in place, you can greatly reduce your exposure to risk. Here are some tips to help you experience the Internet the way you want to.

1. When joining a public hotspot, make certain youre logging onto a legitimate network. Check with the hotspot provider to confirm the network name and to see what the logon should look like.
2. Use secure sites to send and receive personal information. Look for a closed padlock or an unbroken key on the bottom of your browser or your computer task bar.
3. If you use instant messaging or email at public hotspots, never send anything you wouldnt want a stranger to read.
4. Turn off your wireless card when youre not using it. If your wireless card is set to automatically join the nearest network, change that configuration to manual selection.
5. Turn off file sharing while youre connected to a public hotspot. If you have highly sensitive or personal data on your laptop, consider storing it elsewhere.
6. Install strong personal firewall and state-of-the-art virus protection to protect your laptop from intruders and malicious code.

Where can I learn more about accessing the Internet from wireless hotspots?

Right here at Club Symantec. Visit our article "Wi-Fi HotspotsGo Public and Stay Safe." It explains in more detail how to enjoy the freedom of accessing the Internet from wireless hotspots, while keeping your information safe from security threats.

Does Symantec have a product that can protect my personal information and my computer?

Yes we do. Norton Internet Security 2006 is Symantecs most robust product that can help the fight against having your identity stolen or your computer infested. It offers comprehensive protection from bogus emails, hackers, and destructive viruses.