I Spy Wi-Fi

Unfortunately, wi-fi hotspots are not always secure. Whether you’re using a public Wi-Fi connection at a coffee shop, a hotel, or some other public place, each time you log on, you’re sending your ID and password over open airwaves. Nefarious Wi-Fi opportunists can set up pirate SSID names similar to what you expect to receive from the Wi-Fi router, such as ‘wayport’ or ‘t-mobile’, and then capture your private data.

Outfox the would-be thieves by encrypting your data and e-mail, and by using a virtual private network (VPN). Many employers provide VPNs to their mobile workers, so check with your IT manager first. Casual hotspot users can opt for a paid VPN service such as Boingo’s Personal VPN or WiTopia personalVPN, both are simple to install and use. Microsoft is beta-testing its new Windows Live WiFi Suite, which will include VPN service.

JiWire, noted for its free Hotspot Finder service, offers solid Wi-Fi security and e-mail encryption with its Hotspot Helper software. The free download automatically encrypts your inbound and outbound Internet traffic, and adds a firewall to prevent unauthorized access to your PC. The program protects e-mail no matter which client you’re using. Hotspot Helper incorporates JiWire’s on-demand Hotspot Finder and is free for the first 10 days of use; it costs $25 annually for unlimited use.