Public Wi-Fi: when a VPN helps and when it does not

Public Wi-Fi is convenient, but other people on the same network can see unencrypted traffic. A VPN encrypts the traffic between your phone and the VPN server, so people on the same network cannot read it.

Good habits on any network

1. Keep your phone's software updated.
2. Use HTTPS sites. Look for the padlock.
3. Do not approve unexpected login prompts.
4. Turn on a VPN before you sign in to banking or work accounts.

Where a VPN is not enough

A VPN protects the connection, not the device. If you enter your password into a fake login page, a VPN will not stop that.