Avoid online credit card transactions in Wi-Fi zones, expert says

Logging on to a financial website when connected to the internet via Wi-Fi might not be a good move, according to one antivirus software manufacturer.

People should avoid making credit card transactions or any other purchases online when in a Wi-Fi zone.

This is according to antivirus software provider AVG, which noted that logging on to any financial websites when connected to the format may not be a wise move.

Lloyd Borrett, security evangelist at AVG (AU/NZ), said people do not necessarily consider the risks when they travel and then log on to the internet.

And this could lead to people having their Aussie credit card details phished, or even money removed from a person's bank account.

Mr Borrett added: "Research shows that free wireless public networks located in airports and other public places are ripe for exploitation by cyber criminals, thus making business and personal data vulnerable to breaches."

Earlier this year, the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission noted that identity theft can happen to anyone, not just the rich and famous, News Limited Newspapers reported.

By Joe Letts