Mistakes to avoid if you just have to use public Wi-Fi

Kurt “CyberGuy" Knutsson discusses the security risks and potential consequences from the use of public Wi-Fi, including hackers intercepting sensitive or financial data.

This is a dilemma that many people face, even those who are experts in cybersecurity. Case in point, Blackhat, the world’s largest hacker conference held annually in Las Vegas, brings together thousands of cybersecurity professionals from all over the world. They attend the conference to learn about the latest cyberthreats and solutions. But even these skilled professionals can fall victim to the hazards of public Wi-Fi. Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson is an award-winning tech journalist who has a deep love of technology, gear and gadgets that make life better with his contributions for Fox News & FOX Business beginning mornings on "FOX & Friends." Got a tech question? Get Kurt’s CyberGuy Newsletter, share your voice, a story idea or comment at CyberGuy.com.

The event organizers have a playful way of exposing this vulnerability. They monitor the network traffic and display the names of those who have been tricked by a fake or compromised Wi-Fi hotspot. This is the notorious "Wall of Sheep."

The Wall of Sheep showcases the unfortunate consequences of network security negligence. The people on this wall are not willing participants, but careless attendees whose private data was captured and revealed to everyone.