Use free WiFi in the UAE? Here's a warning

The TRA has also listed guidelines on their website for general internet use in the country.

By Web Report

Published: Thu 20 Sep 2018, 2:04 PM

Last updated: Thu 20 Sep 2018, 9:37 PM

Who doesn't want WiFi on the go, especially if it's free? But with connectivity and convenience come some risks, and guidelines.
The Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (TRA) in UAE issued a warning on Thursday regarding the use of WiFi in public areas. "Be wary of allowing your personal data to be visible to those around you while using your devices in public," warned the TRA.
The warning was given in a tweet posted on their official account.

#???????TRA ? ???? ?????? ?? ??????? ????????????? ?? ????? ??? ?#????????_????????
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Advice from ?@TheUAETRA? while you are in the public areas..Beware of your ?#personal_information?
?#aeCERT? ?#TRAadvice? ?#???????TRA? pic.twitter.com/a0Kb6Cb5DD
- ???? ????? ????????? (@TheUAETRA) September 19, 2018

The TRA's warning is founded on a study conducted by several experts. In an earlier Khaleej Times report, technical experts are sounding a pertinent caution: It is not safe to use public WiFi networks for official work, sensitive data or transferring funds. If you shrug off this warning, you do so at your own peril. Additionally, the Dubai Police also issued a warning about the dangers of using public WiFi connections.
There are two kinds of public WiFi networks: secured and unsecured. An unsecured network can be connected to within range and without any type of security feature like a password or login. A secured network requires a user to agree to legal terms, register an account, or type in a password before connecting to the network. It may also require a fee or store purchase to gain access to the password or network. It is worth noting that many public networks in Dubai use some form or registration as a layer of security.
Regardless of the connection type, users are to use public WiFi with caution.
Some public WiFi spots have unencrypted networks which cyber criminals can use to dupe other users. Users are advised against opening links or attachments they receive via email of SMS from unknown sources while using public WiFi.
The TRA has also listed guidelines on their website for general internet use in the country.
1- The age ratings that are acceptable and globally adopted are not considered morally appropriate in the UAE
2- A detailed list of prohibited content has been defined by the authorities in UAE
3- Internet service providers in the UAE are obliged to block and restrict content that falls under the Prohibited Content Categories

How to you use free WiFi in UAE

WiFi UAE is available in throughout Dubai and at select locations in other emirates. It can be used by people owning WiFi-capable devices. The service offers users two types of internet connection; WiFi UAE - a free WiFi service, and WiFi UAE Premium - an affordable paid service that allows users unrestricted upload and download speed.
All you have to do is follow a few simple steps and be connected on the go:
1. Select the '@WiFi UAE' network on your device.
2. Upon receiving a prompt, enter a valid UAE mobile number. 'WiFi UAE' should be selected from the options available.
3-. Fill in the registration form.
4. After the registration process, the user will receive a PIN via SMS on their UAE mobile number.
5. Enter the PIN in the WiFi UAE webpage.
6. The user will be connected to WiFi UAE once the registration is done. A timer will also appear to show the amount of time that the user has spent online.