Public WiFi risks for Australians in the UK and Europe. Why 4G and 5G are safer

Why public WiFi is risky

Public WiFi looks convenient in hotels, airports, cafes, trains, and museums. The problem is that these networks are shared by strangers. Many hotspots do not encrypt traffic between your device and the access point. Your data can travel in plain text. Attackers on the same network can capture the information you send.

How attackers steal your data

Rogue access points

Criminals create fake WiFi networks that look legitimate. They copy names like Hotel Guest WiFi or Airport Free. When you connect, all traffic flows through their device. They can record passwords and send you to fake login pages. It looks normal to the user.

Packet sniffing

On open networks, attackers quietly observe unencrypted traffic. If a website is not fully secured with HTTPS, they can read content. Even with HTTPS active, they can still see the domains you visit. This can help build identity profiles.

Man in the middle attacks

In this attack, a criminal positions their device between yours and the website. They relay traffic back and forward. They can change content, inject malicious code, and steal login cookies. This can allow account access later without your password.

Why travellers are prime targets

Hotels across the UK and Europe are busy hubs. Networks are large and lightly monitored. Airports see thousands of travellers logging into personal accounts. Cafes and train stations offer free WiFi to attract customers. Attackers blend in and leave with valuable data before anyone notices.

Why these risks exist

Public WiFi lets anyone nearby join the network. There is rarely identity verification. Encryption settings vary. Once connected, your device shares a network with strangers. Criminals rely on travellers assuming everything is safe because the network name looks official.

Why mobile data on 4G and 5G is safer

Mobile data encrypts traffic between your device and the carrier. Attackers cannot sit nearby and capture packets. Creating fake mobile towers is difficult. Carriers operate hardened infrastructure with dedicated security staff. You do not share the local network layer with strangers. Many apps add end to end encryption on top. The risk drops further.

What about VPNs

A VPN can help on untrusted WiFi, but it is not perfect. If credentials are captured before the VPN tunnel forms, the damage is done. A VPN does not stop fake login pages or phishing attacks. Treat it as one layer, not your only defence.

Simple safer setup for your trip

Use a local UK or Europe eSIM. Activate before you fly or as soon as you land. Turn off WiFi in public places. Use mobile data for email, banking, maps, rideshare, and ticketing apps. If you must use WiFi, only use networks you control. Avoid unknown networks at hotels, airports, and major attractions.

Business travellers, take extra care

Corporate accounts are valuable. One insecure airport session can lead to a breach. Attackers can pivot from your device into a company network. That becomes a major incident. Use mobile data, enable multi factor authentication, and keep WiFi off in crowded locations.

Key takeaways

Public WiFi is convenient but risky.
Rogue hotspots, sniffing, and man in the middle attacks are common.
Mobile data on 4G or 5G isolates you from attackers.
An eSIM gives instant secure connectivity on arrival.
The cost of mobile data is tiny compared to identity theft.

Call to action

Ready to avoid public WiFi and stay secure in the UK and Europe. Choose a local eSIM with fast 4G or 5G and go online the moment you land. It is one of the easiest ways to protect your data while travelling.