Google has issued an urgent warning to smartphone users worldwide, cautioning them about the dangers of connecting to public Wi-Fi networks. The company explained that such networks may be unencrypted and easily exploited by hackers, putting users’ personal data and banking information at risk.

According to Google, Wi-Fi networks found in cafés, airports, and other public spaces often lack sufficient encryption, giving attackers the opportunity to intercept or spy on transmitted data. While modern Android devices can now automatically alert users when connecting to suspicious networks, Google emphasized that the safest option is to avoid these connections altogether whenever possible.

The company advised users to rely on mobile data instead of public Wi-Fi, regularly monitor their bank accounts and credit reports for unusual activity, disable automatic connections to open networks, and use personal hotspots when necessary.

This warning comes as part of Google’s broader strategy to strengthen digital security for users amid a rise in cyberattacks targeting open networks. Cybersecurity experts believe the company aims to raise awareness about the risks of random connections to free internet, stressing that security should always take precedence over convenience.

Observers note that Google’s warning is not just a casual reminder, but a clear alarm that negligence in securing network connections can open the door to breaches that are difficult to contain. Protecting digital privacy, they say, is no longer optional—it is essential in the smartphone era.