Security Risk associated with Free Wifi and countermeasures

Why would anyone pay for each megabyte when one can use it for nothing? The problem is that many of these “ FREE/Public” Wi-Fi networks do not use encryption mechanisms, and therefore are easier for attackers to break into. Since there is no security validation, anyone connected to the network can connect to router and potentially to other connected devices and get hold of data( passwords, credit/debit card information, names , addresses, frequently visited sites and other sensitive information ) stored on the devices. With data in hand, the attacker is equipped for identity theft or for developing spear...