Using public Wi-Fi poses significant security risks, notably due to the lack of encryption and potential for data breaches. Cybercriminals can easily intercept unprotected data, leading to identity theft or unauthorized access to sensitive information. Users often fall victim to man-in-the-middle attacks or malicious hotspots masquerading as legitimate networks. It's crucial for users to employ VPNs, ensure websites use HTTPS, and refrain from accessing sensitive accounts or conducting transactions over public Wi-Fi. Awareness and caution in such environments are vital to safeguard personal data.