World Cup Fans Risk Data on Public Wi-Fi, Survey Finds
A survey of 6,000 football fans indicates 73% would connect to public Wi-Fi based on venue name, risking data privacy. Many prioritize connectivity for social media and live updates over security, making stadium networks vulnerable to cyberattacks ahead of the 2026 World Cup.
Key points
- A survey commissioned by ExpressVPN polled 6,000 football fans across six markets.
- 73% of fans said they would trust and connect to a public Wi-Fi network named after a venue.
- Fewer than 40% of fans could reliably distinguish real Wi-Fi from fake "evil twin" attacks.
- Fans prioritize sharing live moments, checking scores, and streaming over cybersecurity.
- Stadium Wi-Fi networks are highlighted as particularly vulnerable to cyber threats.
Millions of football fans attending major tournaments, including the upcoming 2026 World Cup, may be unknowingly jeopardizing their digital privacy by prioritizing convenience over security, according to a recent survey. Commissioned by VPN provider ExpressVPN, the study reveals a significant gap in cybersecurity awareness among fans.
The survey of 6,000 fans across six countries found that a substantial majority, 73%, would connect to public Wi-Fi simply because its name suggested it was associated with the venue they were attending. This trust in seemingly legitimate network names, even without verification, leaves fans susceptible to cyber threats.
Compounding the issue, less than 40% of surveyed fans reported confidence in their ability to differentiate between a genuine public Wi-Fi network and a fraudulent one, often referred to as an "evil twin" attack. Cybercriminals can exploit these vulnerabilities by setting up fake networks to intercept user data. Fans' desire to instantly share experiences on social media, access live scores and statistics, or stream matches contributes to their willingness to connect to unsecured networks. This convenience-driven approach makes stadium Wi-Fi hotspots particularly attractive targets for malicious actors seeking to compromise fan data.
Sources
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