VPN ( virtual private network)

sally,

I never worry about that and so far haven't had any problems. If I'm going to be accessing a sensitive website for banking or whatever, I switch Wi-Fi "off" and use cellular data / LTE as that's much harder for scammers to access.

I have the premium membership of disconnect for both my computer and my phone. I had not paid it much attention until our friends were victims of a loss. Better safe than sorry.

https://disconnect.me

Hi Sally. I use a VPN on my laptop when I do anything sensitive, i.e., shopping, banking, reservations w CC. I also use one to access U.S. content on streaming services on the laptop or iPad. I do not bother with my phone, but if you are going to do sensitive transactions, it is probably a good idea. Note that a VPN can slow down transmission. They are in my experience a problem with Skype, so I have to disable when I use that app.

Using "free public wifi" is when you will be the MOST vulnerable to a hack. Restrict financial uses to when you are on a secure, password protected WiFi network. Hopefully your hotel(s) will provide passwords for their WiFi service.

However, I always use a VPN for sensitive (i.e., financial) transactions both in the US and in Europe whatever network I may be on. It's easy to set up on a laptop or mobile device. I use Cloak which costs $9.99 a month and can be canceled at any time, so if you don't want to keep it beyond your travels it's not a hassle to get rid of. Small price to pay for some extra layer of security.

Note that using a VPN may stop some of your streaming services (Netflix, HBOGO, etc) because the provider sees it as someone without an account trying to steal the programming by hiding behind a VPN. You'll need to turn off your VPN for any streaming service you have that blocks access via a VPN.

I also use one to access U.S. content on streaming services on the
laptop or iPad.

Most mobile-streaming apps these days detect the presence of VPNs and block usage if detected. So don't count on using it for streaming when overseas:(

For other purposes, IMO it's overkill. I have accessed Wifi networks from all corners of the world w/o VPN(even high-risk places like China and Russia), to check my bank blances, and credit/debit card transactions and have never had a problem. The builtin encryption has always worked for me.

I agree with Michael and our experience is the same as his. We only use our lap top on a hotel wifi.

There are VPN apps for cell phones. The good ones will cost something. I have one on my iPhone that works very well when I use it. It also has a matching version for Apple laptops which I also have and use when I feel the need. This one lets you pick the spot in the world you want to appear to be. VPN can slow your connection down a bit, but so far it has not been too slow to use.

@Michael Schneider - You are right: some streaming services detect the VPN and deny service. When Netflix went global we were no longer able to consistently stream U.S. content although we did prior. HULU also cut off users of VPNs but Amazon, VUDU, and various networks (CBS, PBS) still allow it. Fingers crossed they continue to do so!

All the streaming apps I frequent block VPNs with the exception of ESPN: Fox Sports, HBO, NBC sports, Netflix.

A good streaming app which has no region restrictions is the Saturday Night Live app. You can view sketches from all seasons from anywhere in the world; best of its free.

Thanks everyone. We will mainly be using the public wifi mainly for directions and will only access our banking sites in the hotel. It is good to know that there are VPN apps for cell phones.

I enjoy the logic of those who have never had a problem therefore none exists. Brilliant!

Brilliant!

Thank You!
I never said there was no risk. Rather it's a risk I'm willing to accept. If a bad guy was somehow able to get a hold of the username and password of the banking site I frequent, the worst they could do to me is transfer money between my own checking/saving account, and see how much money I spend at Pret a Manger. Annoying but nothing to loose sleep over. Even if you choose not to use a VPN there is still encryption in play.
If that is something you are uncomfortable with by all means use a VPN.