Can someone see what websites I visit on their Wi-fi?

Protecting Your Browsing Privacy When Using Shared Wi-Fi

In the era of ubiquitous Wi-Fi networks, sharing internet access has become commonplace. However, this convenience often comes at the expense of privacy. Can someone see what websites I visit on their Wi-Fi? The answer is yes, and this can be a significant concern.

When you connect to a shared Wi-Fi network, the owner of that network has the ability to monitor your online activity. They can track the websites you visit, the data you send and receive, and even your passwords and other sensitive information. This compromise of browsing privacy can have serious implications for your online security and privacy.

Fortunately, there is a solution to this problem: using a virtual private network (VPN). A VPN encrypts your internet traffic and routes it through a secure server, making it virtually impossible for anyone else to see what you are doing online.

Here’s how a VPN works:

1. You connect to a VPN server.
2. Your internet traffic is encrypted and sent to the VPN server.
3. The VPN server decrypts your traffic and sends it to its destination.
4. The response from the destination is sent back to the VPN server.
5. The VPN server encrypts the response and sends it to you.

By using a VPN, you can effectively mask your online activity from the network owner. They will only be able to see that you are connected to the VPN server, but not what you are doing online.

It is important to note that not all VPNs are created equal. Some VPNs may leak your real IP address or DNS information, which could allow someone to track your online activity. Therefore, it is important to choose a reputable VPN provider that offers strong encryption and a no-logs policy.

In conclusion, sharing a Wi-Fi network can expose your online activity to the network owner. This can be a significant concern for your privacy and security. However, by using a robust VPN, you can encrypt your data and mask your online footprint, ensuring that your browsing privacy is protected.