A Study by Private WiFi and The Identity Theft Resource Center Reveals that an Encryption Service is the Best Way to Protect Your Sensitive Data

SHERMAN, CT – November 12, 2013 – Private WiFi, in collaboration with The Identity Theft Resource Center (ITRC), today revealed a new study of mobile device users that demonstrates the growing security concerns of using popular public WiFi Hotspots. The survey revealed that 76% of the 700 surveyed believe that using a free public WiFi hotspot connection can lead to identity theft while 20% were not sure if they should be concerned and 4% did not think it could lead to identity theft.  46% of respondents were not aware there is a way to protect their private information while using a public hotspot.

17% of respondents connect to free public WiFi daily; 21% connect weekly and 37% monthly. 79% of these respondents do not use a VPN to protect their identity, even though they know they should.

“Every day we read about public areas like parks, train stations, and schools adding free public Wi-Fi, but we are not hearing about what this means for individuals using these services, the hazards that prowl, or how to protect ourselves,” said Kent Lawson, founder and CEO of Private WiFi. “The public needs to know just how easy it is for hackers to hack into these public airwaves and steal your private information right out of thin air. In this case, ignorance is not bliss – it can cause a huge headache and cost a lot of money if the proper precautions are not taken.”

“Our study revealed that even though 76% of respondents knew that using a free public WiFi can cause id theft, 46% were not aware that there are ways to protect their information while using these free services. The most reliable solution to keep private information private and what we, at ITRC, recommend is to use a personal VPN,” said Eva Velasquez, president and CEO at the ITRC. “VPN technology offers the greatest level of protection and is an easy solution for anyone choosing to use free public WiFi.”

With the upcoming holiday season, millions of Americans will be shopping online, traveling and using public WiFi hotspots.  There has been a recorded increase in hacking during this time, so it’s important to protect your online identity.

For more results and information on the survey, WiFi safety tips and the survey infographic, please visit: /infographic-76-say-free-wifi-can-lead-to-identity-theft

About Private Communications Corporation
Private Communications Corporation is a security technology company that protects personal data and information on the Internet. Private WiFi, the company's flagship software offering, encrypts all computer data across unencrypted WiFi networks, enhancing online privacy for those without access to virtual private networks. Founded by software entrepreneur Kent Lawson, who is concerned about the growing number of privacy issues on the Internet. Private Communications Corporation is headquartered in Sherman, CT. For more information, visit us at http://www.privateWi-Fi.com and for articles and other online privacy resources, please visit www.private-i.com. You can also connect with them on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/privateWi-Fi

Private WiFi protects your identity and sensitive information by becoming invisible on any public WiFi network. For more information, please contact us at 1-888-525-3078.

About ITRC
Identity Theft Resource Center® (ITRC) is a nonprofit, nationally respected organization dedicated exclusively to the understanding of identity theft and related issues. The ITRC provides victim and consumer support as well as public education. The ITRC also advises governmental agencies, legislators, law enforcement, and businesses about the evolving and growing problem of identity theft. For more information, please visit  www.idtheftcenter.org.

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