Help Nexus 7, security and Wi-Fi

[bz556]

Hello,

I would like to know your thoughts on security using Wi-Fi in unsecured hotspots.

What are your thoughts on using the Nexus 7 at Wi-Fi hotspots around the City like Starbucks? I would assume it's not safe. So far I've had the device for about one week and haven't taken it out of the house.

Thank you for your thoughts and advice.

 

[Martimus]

Welcome to the Android Forums!

Out of curiousity why do you think it would not be safe to use the tablet on a public wifi hotspot?

Your risk is if the device can be exploited by another device... or someone can capture and watch your unencrypted data packets. If you are sitting at a Starbucks doing your taxes or balancing your checkbook online, this might be bit risky. But surfing the web probably isn't quite as risky. Just be aware that public hotspots are typically not encrypted so whatever data you transmit can potentially be seen.

 

[Deleted User]

I plan on doing some traveling in the near future, which includes bringing my Nexus 7. I already have an app that'll setup a VPN Tunnel for me, and encrypt all the data that leaves my device (and presumably everything that's sent to it). Should I take any other steps to help secure it, while using public WiFi at a place like an airport?

 

[ocnbrze]

I plan on doing some traveling in the near future, which includes bringing my Nexus 7. I already have an app that'll setup a VPN Tunnel for me, and encrypt all the data that leaves my device (and presumably everything that's sent to it). Should I take any other steps to help secure it, while using public WiFi at a place like an airport?

i occasionally go to starbucks and hangout with my asus transformer infinity and never had any issues with using the wifi hotspot there. i even have done my banking, and even my taxes there as well. it should be fine, but be cautious though.

 

[Deleted User]

Sure, I have no plans to do either of those, especially at the airport where I can just use the cellular connection on my phone. I'm more worried about people trying to access my device while on the same router as I am.

 

[ocnbrze]

Sure, I have no plans to do either of those, especially at the airport where I can just use the cellular connection on my phone. I'm more worried about people trying to access my device while on the same router as I am.

i'm sure that the technology exists, but i doubt anybody can remotely hack an android device like that. just be careful when you are at the airport. i would not do any banking or anything like that when there is too many peeps to keep track of like an airport......i mean do you always worry about getting your phone hacked? it is almost the same thing as a tablet.

but when i travel or go to the airport, i do surf the net, watch movies, and play games with no problem at all.

 

[Deleted User]

I don't worry about my phone as I a have a cellular connection that obviates the need for wifi while I'm out. That being said, you're likely correct about hacking my tablet, especially some I'm rooted.

 

[479]

I plan on doing some traveling in the near future, which includes bringing my Nexus 7. I already have an app that'll setup a VPN Tunnel for me, and encrypt all the data that leaves my device (and presumably everything that's sent to it). Should I take any other steps to help secure it, while using public WiFi at a place like an airport?

I just got a Google Nexus 7 tablet less than 2 days ago and am still getting used to it (never had a tablet before). What is the app you refer to if you don't mind my asking? I have used Go Trusted but set up the options/settings so I'd go through Google Play (figured that'd be easier and safer during set up).

 

[479]

On a related note: The Google Nexus 7 connected fine to our home wifi line but how do I set it up so that it can connect to wifi signals at Starbucks and other wifi locations? I took it with me to a Starbucks tonight, and I've only had it for two days so far, but I noticed that when we got to the Starbucks there was a picture of an airplane where the wifi signal strength icon would normally be.

As a newbie to tablets and just having gotten the Nexus 7 tablet, I have no idea what this means or how to pick up the wifi signal (and the people at Starbucks didn't know either). So, although I'm embarrassed to ask the question, I respectfully submit it and ask for help if that's okay.

 

[ocnbrze]

welcome to AF!!!!!!

that icon means you are in airplane mode. you need to turn wifi on and then go to your browser and open it. a web page should pop up and you just need to accept startbuck's terms and conditions to use their wifi. just accept it and you are golden.

 

[479]

welcome to AF!!!!!!

that icon means you are in airplane mode. you need to turn wifi on and then go to your browser and open it. a web page should pop up and you just need to accept startbuck's terms and conditions to use their wifi. just accept it and you are golden.

When I went into the Starbucks I turned off airplane mode and made sure wifi was turned on. Nothing happened. Should I have gone into settings, then gone to wifi, and looked for the local connection somehow?

 

[Deleted User]

Here's the VPN app that I use

https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=net.hideman

 

[ocnbrze]

yes you need to go to settings/wireless/find attwifi and select it.....next you go into your browser and open it. you should get a page from starbucks and then you just agree to their terms and then you are connected after that. it is similar to how you initially connected to your home's wifi.