7 Reasons Why Using Public Computers Are Unsafe to Use

While public computers are easily accessible and convenient, they are also hotspots for malware and traps set by malicious actors. Here’s why using a public PC can be so dangerous, why I never use it for anything confidential, and why you should avoid them unless necessary.

Anyone Can Access a Public PC

Unlike personal computers that are for your exclusive use, public computers are accessible to anyone. Ricky might unknowingly install a malicious app, John could click on a harmful popup and infect the browser, and Harry might accidentally disable security features. Since many users don’t follow security practices, you could end up using a PC infected by previous users.

Connecting your external drive, phone, or other devices to a compromised PC can infect the devices and corrupt your data. Using such a device to access confidential information puts you at risk of exposing critical information to hackers. While proper secuity measures and restrictions imposed by an administrator can reduce these risks, you can never be completely sure about safety.

Lack of Security Updates

If someone with limited technical expertise oversees the public system, they may not update it as thoroughly or promptly as they should. Security updates that fix vulnerabilities may not be installed in time, leaving the device open to exploitation. Hackers can exploit these flaws and security vulnerabilities without the average user noticing.

Public PCs also run outdated operating systems (OS), which are more vulnerable to security risks. A few years ago, when I was in university, some PCs were still running Windows XP. These older OSs can’t combat today’s advanced malware and viruses. Therefore, unless the public PC runs a modern OS and is regularly updated, you should avoid using it.

The Network May Not Be Secured

Public Wi-Fi and shared networks often lack proper security measures, making them insecure. Since public computers depend on these insecure networks for internet access, the risks are amplified. Even if the computer isn’t infected, insecure networks can allow criminals to execute man-in-the-middle attacks, intercepting confidential data you share.

Cybercriminals might also set up a fake network with the same name as the original, connecting the public PC directly to it without your knowledge. Divulging sensitive information on such a network puts your security and confidentiality at serious risk. Unless the network is properly managed by an administrator with appropriate security measures in place, stay away from it.

The Browser Could Be Infected

Like operating system updates, apps installed on a public PC are often not updated timely. Security updates released by browser developers to fix vulnerabilities are frequently delayed, leaving the system open to malicious actors. Hackers can exploit these vulnerabilities and tweak browser features without the average user noticing.

For example, they might enable auto-fill for forms to capture your sensitive data or disable security features, making the device more susceptible to infections. Other users might also visit insecure websites and unknowingly infect the browser. Without proper oversight, they might install unsafe extensions and compromise the browser, making it risky for your use.

Therefore, unless the browser is regularly updated, managed by an experienced administrator, and secured against unauthorized changes, you should avoid using it.

Risks of Session Hijacking, Keyloggers, and More

Hijackers could also set up malicious software or run scripts to capture your session cookies. This allows them to access your social media, email, or any other confidential account you log into on the computer. Because of this, you should avoid even seemingly harmless activities like checking an urgent email due to the risk of session hijacking.

They might also install keylogging software to silently record every keystroke, capturing sensitive information such as usernames, passwords, credit card numbers, and other personal data, which they can then exploit. Cybercriminals could be remotely connected to the public computer, spying on your activities.

Additionally, you might forget to log out of your accounts before leaving, giving the next user an easy opportunity to exploit your information. Since it’s difficult for the average user to detect if a PC has been compromised, you should avoid logging into personal accounts to protect your privacy and security.

You Can’t Always Trust the Administrator

While most network administrators diligently protect user data, I don’t fully trust them, especially in public settings like internet cafés. They have extensive access to system settings, software, and network traffic, which allows them to monitor and log activities. They could potentially steal your confidential information and misuse or sell it.

Some public facilities don’t prioritize privacy. They might log your activity under the guise of complying with legal requirements. Without proper encryption, this data could be exploited by third-party hijackers who find a security loophole. Given these risks, I recommend avoiding public PCs if you can’t trust the authorities managing the system.

Ongoing Risk From Shoulder Surfers

I hate shoulder surfers who steal information by peering at your device’s screen. Someone sitting beside you or standing behind your chair might be watching as you enter confidential information. Even a brief glance can be enough to see a password, credit card details, and more, which they can misuse for malicious purposes.

You’d be surprised, but I’ve seen people using smartphone cameras to zoom in from a distance and capture sensitive details. Since you’re in a public place using a public device, people don’t hesitate to do this. These risks are even higher in crowded public places. So, always be vigilant for shoulder surfers, and if you must enter sensitive information, ensure no one is watching you.

Hopefully, you now understand the security risks of using a public PC. To protect your privacy and security, avoid using public devices whenever possible. If you need one in an emergency, avoid accessing confidential information. Also, perform basic checks to ensure the device isn’t infected and someone isn’t monitoring you.