Working in a public space: privacy, security, etiquette
- Calls in cafés are not a right. Step outside or into a booth for anything longer than a minute. If the operator has not published a call policy, ask — do not assume.
- Screen and audio privacy are on you. A privacy filter plus wired headphones handle the majority of shoulder-surfing and accidental audio leaks in shared rooms.
- Public Wi-Fi still needs a VPN for any work that touches customer data, source code, or credentials. Even where a venue publishes fast Wi-Fi, the network is shared.
- Purchase-expected means purchase-expected. A drink per two hours is a fair floor at a café; longer stays deserve a second order or a move to a paid workspace.
- Never assume outlet access. Where a venue has not published an outlet policy, arrive charged and carry a battery bank.