In public wireless networks, it is theoretically possible to intercept other people's sensitive information (such as passwords and bank card information) through technical means, but this behavior involves serious security risks and legal issues. The following is the analysis and preventive recommendations from a technical point of view： --- ###**1. Possible means of attack** 1. **Man-in-the-middle attack (MITM)** -The attacker pretends to be a public WiFi hotspot (for example, named "Free_WiFi”) to induce users to connect. Once the user accesses, the attacker can intercept all unencrypted communication data. -Grab data packets through tools (such as `Wireshark`, 'ettercap`) and analyze the information transmitted in plain text (such as HTTP website login password). 2. **Packet Sniffing (Packet Sniffing)** -In an unencrypted public network, an attacker uses a sniffing tool to listen for traffic within the same network. If the website visited by the user does not have HTTPS enabled (HTTP only), sensitive information may be intercepted in clear text. 3. **SSL/TLS stripping attack** -Even if the website supports HTTPS, an attacker may steal data by tricking users into downgrading to HTTP (in combination with a man-in-the-middle attack). 4. **Malicious hotspots and ARP spoofing** -The attacker fakes the MAC address of the gateway (ARP spoofing) in the local area network, redirects user traffic to his own device, and then extracts sensitive information from it. --- ###**2. Conditions for successful attack** -**The network is not encrypted**: WPA2/WPA3 encryption is not enabled on public WiFi (for example, open network). -**Negligence in user behavior**: The user visits a website that does not have HTTPS enabled, or directly enters sensitive information in a public network. -**Device or software vulnerabilities**: User equipment has vulnerabilities (such as outdated operating systems or browsers) that may be exploited. --- ###**3. How to prevent it? ** 1. **Use HTTPS** -Make sure that the address of the website you are visiting starts with `https://` (the browser displays a lock icon). -Install browser plug-ins (such as `HTTPS Everywhere`) to force the use of encrypted connections. 2. **Enable VPN** -Use a trusted VPN service to encrypt all traffic, even if an attacker intercepts the data, it cannot be decrypted. 3. **Avoid sensitive operations** - Avoid logging in to bank accounts, entering passwords, or making payments on public WiFi. 4. **Turn off automatic connection** -Disable the “Automatically connect to a known network” function of the device to prevent accidental connection to malicious hotspots. 5. **Update system and software** -Patch system vulnerabilities in a timely manner to reduce the possibility of being attacked. --- ###**4. Legal and ethical risks** -**Legal consequences**: Unauthorized interception of other people's communications is a criminal act in most countries and regions and may face criminal charges. - **Ethical issues**: Even if the technology is feasible, such behaviors seriously infringe on the privacy of others and violate network security ethics. --- ###**Summary** There is a potential risk of public wireless networks being exploited by attackers, but technical protection (such as HTTPS, VPN) and cautious behavior can significantly reduce the threat. Ordinary users do not need to panic excessively, but they need to improve their security awareness; on the other hand, attackers have to bear the dual legal and ethical costs.