Public Wi-Fi & Privacy Basics

Using Wi-Fi Safely in Singapore

Singapore has free public Wi-Fi at most MRT stations, libraries, hawker centres, and community centres through Wireless@SGx. It is handy, but you need to be a little careful.

Step 1: Use the official Wireless@SGx network

1. Look for the network named Wireless@SGx — this is the official government-backed free Wi-Fi.
2. Register once using your mobile number or SingPass.
3. Avoid connecting to unknown networks with similar names — scammers sometimes set up fake ones.

Step 2: Avoid sensitive tasks on public Wi-Fi

1. Do not log in to your CPF, SingPass, or internet banking on public Wi-Fi if you can help it.
2. Do not shop online or enter your card details on public Wi-Fi.
3. Reading the news, watching videos on MeWatch, and general browsing is generally fine.

Step 3: Look for the padlock in your browser

1. When you visit a website, look at the address bar at the top.
2. You should see a small padlock icon 🔒 next to the website address.
3. The padlock means your connection to that site is private.
4. Official Singapore government websites end in .gov.sg — always check this.

Step 4: Log out when you are done

1. When you finish using a website, click "Log out" or "Sign out".
2. Close the browser tab after logging out.
3. This stops other people on the same network from accessing your account.

Tip: If you use a lot of public Wi-Fi, ask your family about a mobile data plan — many telcos in Singapore like Singtel, StarHub, and M1 offer affordable senior plans.