It is usually possible to take control of a hacked wifi router again, and there are some simple … [+]
Your WiFi router is your online port, and if hacked it can cause you big problems, from poor performance to malware or ransomware. Criminals can gain access to a number of ways, from using a weak password or taking advantage of the weaknesses of uncontrolled software to the abduction of the Domain Names server (DNS), by which a hacker changes your Router’s DNS settings to redirect your online traffic. If you happen, it is important to act quickly to limit the damage. We look at the steps you need to take to secure your router and how to keep it safe in the future.
How to tell if your WiFi is hacked
Hackers have a number of hacking methods of a WiFi router, with poor passwords are the most common. Hundreds of thousands of routers are hacked every year.
If this happens to you, you will probably see one or more signs. Your browser may continue to redirect you, for example, or you can find your internet slower than usual. Your input credentials or router settings may have been changed without your knowledge. Other signs that your WiFi router is hacked include increasing the use of unusual network data or activity, or discovering that unknown devices are connected to your WiFi.
Sign 1: Your browser continues to redirect you
A common symptom of a hacked wifi router is your browser repeatedly redirecting on a website different from what you planned to visit. These websites can be malicious, and can lead to malware or theft if you enter any information or click on any links.
Sign 2: Your internet speed is slower than usual
Slow Internet speeds are a common sign that your WiFi router is hacked: this indicates that your network is being used by someone else receiving resources.
Sign 3: Your WiFi password has been changed
If you find out that your WiFi password no longer works, it’s an indicator that has been changed by a hacker. The goal is to stop you from accessing and taking control of your own network.
Sign 4: Unknown equipment
If a device that is not yours is using your WiFi connection is a sign that is being operated by a hacker. You need to be able to check if this is the case using the interface of the router or mobile app.
Sign 5: Unusual network activity
If you see software or an app you haven’t downloaded in more than one device, it may mean that a hacker could have used your network to install malicious software. Similarly, if you notice an increase in using your data, it can be a sign that hackers are using your connection.
Should what should you do if your WiFi is hacked?
If you suspect that your WiFi router is hacked, it is important to act quickly to minimize the damage that hackers can cause.
The first step you need to take is to disconnect your router and give it a factory reset, after which you need to change your password. Then you have to use an anti-virus package to check all your equipment for malware and deal with any safety violation you find by deleting anything suspected. Update your router’s firmware and contact your ISP for help: it should be able to confirm if your router has been compromised and guides you through additional security measures.
Step 1: Disconnect and reset your router
Your first step should be the interruption of hacker entry by disconnecting your router by disconnecting it, turning off the power button or disabled WiFi. Then you have to perform a full factory reset holding the reset button on the router for 15 to 30 seconds and waiting until the LED is switched on.
Step 2: Change your password
By Jinny86% of users have never changed their password – putting it at risk of attack. You have to change it now, to something unique and difficult to imagine. Do the same with your WiFi network.
Step 3: Scan for malware
If the hackers have entered your WiFi, they probably went after your equipment as well. Scan each for malware and remove everything weird you find.
Step 4: Update the router firmware
It is possible for the hackers to have gained access to your WiFi router because the firmware is outdated. Check your router manufacturer’s website to find firmware’s latest version and follow the instructions to perform an update.
How can you protect your wifi from hackers?
The most important way in which you can protect your WiFi router from hackers is to change the password to something unique and difficult to imagine. You also need to change the network name.
Activate the encryption to the maximum of your router, and make sure you always keep its program updated. You may consider creating an invited network, which allows guests to access the Internet using your router, but it has no connection to your primary network connection so that the guests cannot access your network or personal equipment. Your router may also have a fire wall – usually already activated, but it’s worth checking and turning on if not. It can also be worth investing in a private virtual network to make hackers more difficult to gain access.
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If the hackers are able to compromise your WiFi router, give them a way to all your equipment – and the consequences can be severe. If it happens to you, however, it is usually possible to take control – and there are some simple measures you can take, it should keep you safe in the future.