How dangerous is public WiFi?

Days have passed, but Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson is still reeling from the cyber attack that occurred last week. On Friday, Mar. 23, the world’s busiest airport was the victim of a cyber attack, prompting officials to take down internet access. Michael Nowatkowski, an associate professor of information security at Augusta University, speaks on the vulnerability of public wi-fi and recommends against shopping online or checking online banking.

“What makes it maybe more of a danger at an airport is simply the concentration of the number  of people in that area, so that would just expose you to more potential hazards, more people that might want to take advantage of your system,” Nowatkowski said.

As of 10 a.m. on Wednesday, March 28,  Hartsfield-Jackson’s website shows an attention notice saying, “We are currently experiencing internet difficulties. ATL’s WiFi system, along with Security wait times and flight information are impacted. Please check directly with your airline for information.”

The Atlanta Journal-Constitution: Atlanta cyber attack: Hartsfield-Jackson wi-fi still down

March 26, 2018