UAE expats speak out

Majella Datdula Filipino

“Normally, I use free WiFi in Metro stations and in malls such as Mall of the Emirate and Dubai Mall. I use it mainly for chatting and for directions when I need it. I was not aware of the risks that come with using WiFi in public places, and now that I do, I will not be using it as much. There needs to be more done to spread awareness about the risks because we all want to be connected. When we join a free WiFi connection we often have to agree to a few links and confirm our identity and that could be where the risks lie.”

Nibras Nasser Palestinian

“I use some free WiFi if I need it for direction when I’m lost. However, it is very rare. I am aware that some of the risks may include my phone being hacked and someone may gain access to my pictures and notes. I don’t believe that the information on my phone could be helpful for anyone, which is why when I need internet I am willing to take the risk for the short period I connect to the WiFi.”

Mohammad Basiouny Egyptian

“Prior to my awareness of the risks involved, I indeed used to connect to free WiFi hotspots and public networks in shopping malls and restaurants. However, once I came to understand the potential hacking and data-theft risks — specifically when accessing personal data, emails, online banking or even when logging into social media — I have avoided using public networks. I now have data package on my phone, which enables me to browse safely when in public.”

Hameed Yousuf Indian

“I don’t use free, public WiFi because it’s not safe. Even in shopping malls, parks and other areas where WiFi is open, it is not safe as it may take your encryptions. But sometimes I use free WiFi at airports because it’s the most trusted place. But overall, I don’t trust free WiFi.

Sanjay Kumar Nepalese

“Most of the time, I have plenty of data, so generally I don’t use public WiFi, but at places where I don’t have data but need access to the internet for some important thing, I do use free WiFi briefly and disconnect it after use. Security risk, of course, is there. So I try to avoid using free WiFi.