Security
Secure browsing
The Cloud gives you free, reliable and easy-to-use internet access in over 5000 public hotspots, so you can stay connected when you’re on the go.
But, like anything in life, we can’t guarantee your connection is 100% secure, 100% of the time. The Cloud hotspots are only one part of the security chain – and we can only control our own network.
How secure are public Wi-Fi hotspots?
Our hotspots are only a part of the security chain – for example if you connect using a smartphone, open an app and access an online service through a Cloud hotspot, we can only control the final element in that chain.
We will do our part to secure the hotspot, but suggest some standard security precautions as you browse to minimise other risks. These are below in our ‘Tips for users’ section.
The most important thing is to ensure that the apps, sites and services you use while browsing are from safe sources – and to use and update basic protections such as your firewall and virus checkers.
Tips for users
Securing personal data
• Install and update well-known anti-virus software and personal firewalls to protect your appliances
• Make sure you log out when your session ends – and make sure any ‘Keep me logged in’ check-boxes are not ticked
• Use a secure, free VPN to connect to the internet – we recommend http://hotspotshield.com/
• Ensure your computer is password-protected
• Don’t leave your laptop unattended in a public place – or lock it if you absolutely have to leave it
• Be careful not to leave credit card details exposed on-screen
• Make sure sites are secure before entering your personal banking details – look for the padlock icon on your browser and click it to confirm the page is secure
• Look for web addresses starting ‘https’ – the ‘s’ means the page is encrypted and your details are secure
• Be careful when responding to emails – don’t divulge any personal or financial details, and remember that your bank will never ask you to send them your password or PIN
• Shop sensibly – exercise caution and check reviews of sites you’re unfamiliar with
• Avoid ‘phishers’ – sites that resemble a legitimate business but are in fact fakes designed to steal your personal details – by being cautious and protecting your personal details
Can computers connected to a wireless network be hacked into or get a virus?
While your computer is connected to a public network it may be vulnerable. We recommend you protect yourself, by installing security products such as a virus checker, firewall and VPN client.
Use Wi-Fi responsibly
The Cloud provides full access to the internet through its network of hotspots. The Cloud’s Acceptable Use Policy ensures the network is used responsibly and enforces restrictions on access to illegal and illicit content via the network, actions or activities that may threaten the integrity of the network, abuse of the network through spam and similar applications, privacy infringement and other inappropriate activities. For further information, please read our Acceptable Use Policy.
Please note
The Cloud’s Website site includes details of, or links through to, information and services provided by third party websites. The Cloud does not control the accuracy or completeness of that information. The Cloud accepts no responsibility or liability for the content of other websites that are not under our direct control. You take full responsibility for using and verifying that information, and for any decision to use, purchase or refrain from purchasing any of the services or products mentioned on a linked site.