67% of people expose themselves to public WiFi risks with no VPN

You know public WiFi isn't especially safe, so why do you use it without a VPN? That's the takeaway from a new survey by cybersecurity software company Panda, which asked 1,000 Americans about their public WiFi habits.

While it's good to see that 65% of users polled were concerned about WiFi safety, this sadly doesn't seem to translate into action, with only 33% of them bothering to use a VPN. Firewalls and ad blockers (both 28%) were also cited, as were antivirus tools (43%). But given the attractive deals available from the best VPN services, and the fact they're perfect for upping privacy on public WiFi, it's disappointing to see such a low uptake on tools I'd deem essential.

It doesn't matter if you're streaming Netflix or gaming on public WiFi, if it's not your own network, a VPN is absolutely vital. Public WiFi has so many risks, from data being 'sniffed' and logged to on-the-move cybercriminals setting up their own fake access points and intercepting your data (this is known as the 'Man in the Middle' or MITM attack).

Those who participated in the survey aren't exactly engaging in safe behaviors online, either. Downloading files was low at 16%, but some admitted to checking work-related files or email (17%), which could have serious consequences for an employer. Using credit cards for online purchases (20%) or even, most shockingly of all, logging into a bank over public WiFi (18%). As some VPNs are blocked from accessing these services, I'd only ever suggest accessing private info from a trusted home or work connection.

Public WiFi should also be avoided for any financial activities. Sadly, 36% of the survey respondents admitted that they "suspected or are concerned about a security incident" following the use of public WiFi. A further 10% admitted to their personal reputation being damaged. With consequences including financial loss (16%) and difficulty sleeping (13%), let's just say the risk of using public WiFi unprotected probably isn't worth it.

To stay safe and keep your activity private, you can encrypt your activity with a basic VPN or subscribe to the best streaming or gaming VPN. The choice is yours, but you need to encrypt your connection, wherever you are.