What Is A Hot Spot?

A wireless Hot Spot is a public area such as a coffee shop or store that allows its customers access to the Internet via a wireless connection. Users can log on to the Internet with their laptop or other device that has wireless connectivity enabled through a wireless card or other technology. Hot Spots are found in many places including airports, bookstores, libraries, and even many college campuses.

Hot Spots tend to be unsecured, allowing all user data to be shared throughout the network which can obviously be a concern. For surfing the Internet this is no problem, but if any usernames or passwords are needed, a Hot Spot may not be the best place to use them. Making purchases with a credit card via a public wireless network should also be avoided.

Some Hot Spots have security protocols in place to offer users at least some protection. These networks generally require authentication and are usually not free. The authentication process includes giving a credit card number or other method of payment before reaching the Internet. While being more secure than a free-for-all network, users should avoid broadcasting sensitive data whenever possible.

Identity thieves have been known to use Hot Spots to gather user data for malicious purposes. The thieves will set up an access point within an existing Hot Spot to trick users into logging on through their network. This method is called the “Evil Twin”. Identity thieves may also set up their own Hot Spots in public areas such as parks and malls for the same purpose. These are often referred to as “Poisoned Hotspots”.

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In our main article section on Wireless Internet Service Providers you will find more helpful information on wi-fi networks and other forms of wireless Internet access.