NatWest urges hotel guests to avoid wi-fi before checking guide book
NatWest has shared a number of tips for staying safe while using hotel wi-fi, as people might not realise the risks
NatWest has advised customers staying in hotels to read the guest book before connecting to wi-fi. With the Christmas period under way, many people are planning trips to see family, attend parties, or visit festive markets. For anyone staying in a hotel on their holiday, it's important to be mindful that cybercriminals may target hotel guests.
According to advice shared on NatWest's website: "Scammers sometimes set up fake hotel networks with names that are very similar to the genuine one." As such, it's important to 'make sure the network name is the one printed in official hotel guest books', says the bank.
NatWest also warned customers against entering any personal information when connected to open Wi-Fi networks. "When using open Wi-Fi networks, stick to messaging and browsing, and avoid entering any personal information."
"These networks are usually open, which means anyone can log on or that many people have the password. This makes it easier for fraudsters to see any details you enter on the same network," the bank explains.
Elsewhere, cybersecurity company Norton highlighted the risks associated with hotel wi-fi. Advice on the brand's website states: "Malicious hotspots, or rogue access points, are deceptive networks that trick users into connecting by mimicking legitimate Wi-Fi names.
As previously mentioned, it's advised to avoid accessing sensitive information while connected to public wi-fi, and it's recommended to only use websites that begin with 'HTTPS' or have a padlock to show it's secure. People might also choose to use a VPN to minimise security risks, reports the Mirror.
According to Norton, public Wi-Fi hotspots could also pose a risk, especially if criminals target unencrypted networks to gain access to sensitive banking information. "Many public Wi-Fi hotspots are unencrypted networks that transmit data in plain text, making it vulnerable to cybercriminals with the right tools.
"Hackers on the same network can intercept your online activities, including banking information, login credentials, and personal messages."
However, it's not just digital scams that holidaymakers should be wary of. NatWest also offers advice on staying safe while exchanging money and dining out at restaurants. The banking group advises customers to always pay in local currency where possible and to be mindful of potential restaurant scams, which could result in people being overcharged for food or charged for food that seemed complimentary.
NatWest suggests checking reviews ahead of time before choosing a restaurant, checking prices when placing an order, only eating and drinking what was ordered, and requesting an itemised receipt. The bank also recommended looking out for any additional charges, such as water charges or cover charges.