Why does my Wi-Fi say not secure on my phone?

Seeing “Not Secure” next to your Wi-Fi network name on your phone can be unsettling, but it’s a straightforward issue with a relatively simple explanation: your network lacks encryption. This warning doesn’t mean your phone is compromised, nor is it related to incorrect date and time settings. It simply means that data traveling over your Wi-Fi network is being sent in plain text, making it vulnerable to interception.

Think of it like sending a postcard versus a sealed letter. Anyone can read a postcard, while the contents of a sealed letter are private. Similarly, when your Wi-Fi is unencrypted, anyone within range with the right tools can potentially see the data you’re sending and receiving. This includes passwords, browsing history, online banking details, and anything else you do online.

So, why is your network unencrypted? There are a few common reasons:

• Older Router: Very old routers may not support modern encryption protocols like WPA2/WPA3.
• Misconfigured Settings: Your router’s security settings might have been accidentally disabled or set to an outdated, insecure protocol like WEP.
• Guest Network: Some routers create a separate, unencrypted guest network by default. While convenient for visitors, connecting your primary devices to this network exposes your data.
• Open Public Wi-Fi: Public Wi-Fi hotspots in cafes, airports, and other locations are often intentionally unencrypted for easy access. While convenient, these networks are inherently insecure and should be used with extreme caution.

What can you do?

• Check your Router Settings: Log in to your router’s administration interface (usually by typing 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1 into your web browser). Look for the wireless security settings and ensure WPA2/WPA3 Personal (also sometimes called WPA2/WPA3-PSK) is enabled. Choose a strong password that is difficult to guess.
• Upgrade your Router: If your router is very old and doesn’t support modern encryption, it’s time for an upgrade. Modern routers are affordable and offer much better security.
• Use a VPN on Public Wi-Fi: When using public Wi-Fi, a Virtual Private Network (VPN) encrypts your connection, adding an extra layer of security even if the network itself is unencrypted.
• Avoid Sensitive Activities on Unsecured Networks: Refrain from online banking, shopping, or accessing sensitive information when connected to an unsecured network.

Don’t ignore the “Not Secure” warning. Taking these simple steps to enable encryption on your Wi-Fi network will significantly improve your online security and protect your personal information.