5 Signs Your Wifi Router Is Hacked – And What To Do
Your wifi router is your gateway to the internet, and if it's hacked, it can cause you big problems, from poor performance to malware or ransomware. Criminals can gain access in a number of ways, from exploiting a weak password or taking advantage of unpatched software vulnerabilities to Domain Name Server (DNS) hijacking, whereby a hacker changes your router's DNS settings to redirect your internet traffic. If it happens to you, it's essential to act quickly to limit the damage.
Here are 5 signs that your wifi router has been hacked, along with steps to take to secure your router and prevent future hacking attempts:
Sign 1: Your Browser Keeps Redirecting You
A common symptom of a hacked wifi router is your browser repeatedly redirecting to a different website from the one you planned to visit. These websites may be malicious, and could 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 has been hacked: it indicates that your network is being used by someone else who is taking up resources. This can be a clear indication that an unauthorized user has gained access to your network.
Sign 3: Your WiFi Password Has Been Changed
If you discover that your wifi password no longer works, it's an indication that it's been changed by a hacker. The aim is to stop you having access, and taking control of your network themselves. If a device that isn't yours is using your wifi connection, it's a sign that it's being operated by a hacker.
Sign 4: Unusual Network Activity or Increased Data Usage
Other signs that your wifi router has been hacked include increased data usage or unusual network activity, or discovering that unfamiliar devices have been connected to your wifi. If you notice any of these signs, it's essential to investigate further and take action to secure your network.
Sign 5: Unexplained Changes to Your Network Settings
Additionally, if you notice unexplained changes to your network settings, such as the network name or password being changed without your knowledge, it may be a sign that someone has gained unauthorized access to your network.
To take back control of your network and prevent future hacking attempts, follow these steps:
Steps To Take
Here are some steps you can take to secure your wifi router and prevent future hacking attempts:
* Change Your Login Credentials: If you reset your router, you'll need to change your login credentials again. This includes the outer login name, router password, network name, and network password. * Enable Encryption: Ensure that your router's encryption is enabled to the best possible level. This will make it harder for hackers to gain access to your network. * Maintain Software Updates: Keep your router's software up-to-date to ensure you have the latest security patches and features. * Use a Guest Network: Consider creating a guest network, which allows guests to access the internet using your router but has no ties to your primary network connection. This will prevent unauthorized users from accessing your personal network or devices. * Enable Firewall: Check if your router's firewall is enabled and consider switching it on if not. * Invest in a Virtual Private Network (VPN): Consider investing in a VPN to make it harder for hackers to gain access to your network.
If you're concerned that your wifi router has been hacked, take action immediately to secure your network and prevent further hacking attempts. Remember, resetting a router may not get rid of hackers on its own – you'll also need to change your login credentials to do so.
Resetting A Router: What You Need To Know
Resetting a router can help remove malicious files and restore your network to its default settings. However, it won't automatically get rid of hackers. To do that, you'll need to change your login credentials – including the outer login name, router password, network name, and network password.
How Do You Reset A Router?
Resetting a router is usually straightforward – simply hold the reset button on the router for 15-30 seconds and wait until the LEDs flicker. However, be aware that this will also reset the network's name and password to their default settings.
How Do I Know If My Phone Is Hacked?
Some common signs that your phone has been hacked include:
* A fast-draining battery * Higher-than-usual bills due to unauthorized activities on your phone * Apps taking a long time to load or open, or closing unexpectedly * Unexpected notifications or unrequested 2FA codes appearing * Settings such as camera or microphone permissions changing without your knowledge * Being locked out of your Apple ID or Google account
Running a reputable security software package should reveal for sure whether your phone has been hacked. If you suspect that your phone has been compromised, take action immediately to secure it and prevent further hacking attempts.
How Do I Know If My Computer Is Hacked?
Some common signs that your PC has been hacked include:
* Slow performance or freezing * Programs appearing on your computer that you didn't install yourself * Changes to your browser home page or unexpected pop-ups * Unexpected emails being sent or received * Your password changing without your knowledge * Unauthorized logins or new accounts appearing
Running a reputable security software package should reveal for sure whether your PC has been hacked. If you suspect that your computer has been compromised, take action immediately to secure it and prevent further hacking attempts.