free Wifi and security

not sure if this is the best forum but I wonder about using free wifi at cafe's or malls. I understand that I should not log on to sites disclosing my passwords or send confidential emails as the traffic could be read by people nearby.

If I just want to surf some news sites or look up general info on my iphone, tablet or laptop, are there any other security or privacy issues? Could someone "hack" my device and access data on it?

 

9 Tips to Stay Safe on Public Wi-Fi

Also see https://www.wilderssecurity.com/threads/av-comparatives-firewall-test-03-2014.362063/.

 

Thanks Brian. I found it very useful. I hope Sandy finds it useful as well.

 

@ams963: You're welcome .

 

Thank you Mr Brian - great info

 

Why Using a Public Wi-Fi Network Can Be Dangerous, Even When Accessing Encrypted Websites.

@SandyD: You're welcome .

 

Public Wi-Fi hotspots – know the risks