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Step 1
Avoid any poorly titled networks. When networks such as WireLessAT&T show up, they're most likely pay-to-use networks that are legitimate (although possibly expensive). When you see something like abracdabra21001 or mocha5, there's no clue as to the origin of the wireless signal.
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Step 2
Avoid free networks. Most legitimate networks in an airport are pay-to-use. If it was free, everybody would be using it.
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Step 3
Ask the information agent about safe and legitimate wireless networks provided for travelers. Sometimes you can get a legitimate signal in an airport and complete your transactions. You might have to pay a fee, but that's better than exposing yourself to online crime using a sketchy network.
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Step 4
Monitor your wireless signal constantly. Some network cards have an auto-connect feature that allows them to jump onto networks without the user actually doing anything. Check your wireless information from time to time to see that you are still connected to the legitimate network that you were using, and if you get auto-connected to a strange network, disconnect promptly.
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Step 5
Save your transactions for a less hectic time. Most of the success of sketchy airport systems is that travelers feel a sense of urgency to view financial details or complete last-minute transactions. You'll be safer waiting until you are in a place where you know what's going on around you.
