MANILA, Philippines (Jul 2026) — Logging into that free WiFi at your favorite café or the local mall feels like a win, but it might actually be an open invitation for hackers to swipe your banking details.
As more Pinoys hunt for a signal in public spaces, cybersecurity firm Kaspersky is echoing a recent warning from the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT). Unsecured networks are basically digital playgrounds for criminals looking to intercept passwords, personal messages, and even plant malware on your phone without you knowing.
Choon Hong Chee, Head of Consumer Channel for APAC at Kaspersky, says free connections often have a hidden cost. Since these networks do not usually require authentication, anyone monitoring the connection can see what you are doing.
The DICT guide to staying safe
The DICT recently shared a list of habits that can keep you from becoming a “soft target” for hackers. If you are using a public connection, you should avoid opening any banking apps. It is also important to verify that the network name is legitimate, as hackers often set up fake hotspots with names that look official.
Other basic steps include turning off the auto-connect feature on your phone and making sure to log out of your accounts once you are done browsing.
How to protect your digital life
Kaspersky experts recommend a few extra layers of security to keep your data locked down. If you absolutely must use public WiFi, use a reliable VPN to encrypt your data. You should also ensure your device firewall is active and that you are using two-factor authentication (2FA) for all your personal accounts.
For those who travel often, experts suggest purchasing an eSIM instead of relying on open networks. This provides a more secure and direct connection to the internet without the risks associated with shared public hubs.
Finally, digital hygiene is key. Avoid using public USB chargers, as these can also be used to steal data or install malicious software. Keeping your apps and operating system updated is the best way to patch vulnerabilities before hackers can exploit them.
