How to Secure Your WiFi Connection?
As the world is becoming increasingly digital, threat actors have enhanced cybercrime to become more malicious. Data is a major asset in the digital world and wherever there is data, the threat of a cyberattack always looms over. The major misconception about cybercrime is that it only targets businesses and large corporations but that is not the case. It can target your personal data by hacking your WiFi and cause you harm as well.
WiFi hacks are a common type of cybercrime and this blog focuses on identifying and preventing hackers from breaching your WiFi connection.
How Can a WiFi Hack Be Detrimental to You?
A WiFi hack is when a hacker acquires unauthorized access to your WiFi network. This is usually done by exploiting any vulnerabilities or flaws in your internet connection, which lets the hacker get through and gain access to your devices.
WiFi hacks are detrimental to you because almost all your devices and gadgets are connected to your WiFi and each device holds a plethora of personal information which is extremely valuable to the hacker. The WiFi connection acts as a bridge between the hacker and your personal information, which can be misused in a variety of ways. This data can be your home address, personal number, credit card numbers, bank application login details, social media passwords, email credentials, etc. The least harm that a WiFi hacker can do is use your internet connection without your consent.
Types of WiFi Attacks are:
- Rogue Access Point
- Password Cracking
- Man-in-the-Middle Attack
- Evil Twin Attack
- Packet Sniffing
- Wireless Jamming
- Denial of Service Attack
How to Know if Your Wi-Fi is Hacked?
It is a smart approach to be aware of the tell-tale signs that signify your WiFi might be hacked. That way, you can instantly pick up a disparity and take preventive measures instantaneously.
- Unanticipated high data usage
- Difficulty in logging onto the router’s administrative control.
- Seeing unknown devices connected to your Wi-Fi.
- Browser displaying weird messages through pop-ups or notifications.
Strategies to Secure Your Wi-Fi Connection
Securing your WiFi connection is no rocket science. It just requires a basic understanding of your router and WiFi settings. One major aspect to consider is that nothing can guarantee 100% safety as cybercrime continues to evolve. However, implementing these tips can make it difficult for just anyone to hack your WiFi.
Checking Your ISP’s Internet Security Protocols:
It is important to first view what protocols your Internet Service Provider has in place that protect your Internet. They typically have encryption protocols, firewalls, network monitoring, data encryption at rest, and other security protocols in place to safeguard your wireless internet connection.
Similarly, Xfinity, a leading internet service provider in the US, ensures users get fast, secure, and reliable fiber-backed internet. Some of the Xfinity Internet plans allow access to its Advanced Security option, which protects your home network from cyberattacks, giving you peace of mind.
Placing Your Router in the Centre of Your Home:
Strategically setting up your WiFi router in the middle of your home will keep your WiFi signals confined to the walls of your home. This will eliminate any chances of strong signals reaching an outsider or a possible hacker.
Changing Passwords Frequently:
It is crucial to change your WiFi’s default login credentials and put in place a stronger password. Changing the password frequently prevents hackers from gaining access to it. The router’s login credentials are also an aspect that often goes ignored. You also need to change its default credentials to secure your WiFi connection as it is different from your WiFi’s password.
Verifying Connected Devices:
Regularly monitoring and verifying the devices connected to your network is important. You should be aware of each device that is connected to your network, and if you find an unknown device connected, it is advisable to immediately change your password. Most Internet of Things(IoT) devices have randomized numeric names, which makes it difficult to quickly verify, but this is a loophole that most hackers exploit the most.
Encrypt with a WPA3 Router:
Upgrading to a router that employs a strong encryption protocol is also a great method to prevent hacking attempts. Most new routers are equipped with WPA3 protocol, which is a secure enough technology to protect WiFi hacks.
Quick Reminder!
Wireless network security comes with no guarantee that it will provide foolproof connection security. However, it is always advisable to remain up to date on home network security practices so that you can mitigate harmful actors smartly.
Taking a proactive approach rather than a reactive approach to secure your home internet connection will save your personal data from breaches and exploitations.
