🔒 Is Your Wi-Fi Router a Target for Hackers? Here’s How to Protect It!

Did you know your Wi-Fi router could be vulnerable to hackers? A 2022 study by the National Institute of Standards and Technology found up to 209 security flaws in common routers, leaving them open to attacks.

In mid-2023, the FBI reported that a hacking group called BlackTech had specifically targeted Cisco routers, demonstrating how real this threat is.

But don’t worry—there are ways to protect yourself! As a tech expert with over a decade of experience, I’ve connected with Josh Amishav, founder of Breachsense, to give you key tips to keep your router safe from hackers.

How Hackers Gain Access
Hackers often exploit weak passwords or outdated security settings to take control of your router. Once they’re in, they can infect your network with malware and gain access to everything connected to your Wi-Fi—like computers, security cameras, and smart devices.

Why Hackers Want Your Router
With control of your router, hackers can spy on your activity, steal personal information, and even use your internet connection for illegal activities. According to Josh, “Controlling the router allows malicious users to monitor, capture, and manipulate data being sent and received.”

Signs of a Hacked Router
Here’s what to watch out for:

  • Slow internet or device performance
  • Passwords suddenly stop working
  • Website redirects to fake or malicious sites
  • New apps or software you didn’t install
  • Unfamiliar devices on your network

How to Protect Your Router
Here are steps you can take to prevent a hack:

  1. Change your router’s default login and Wi-Fi passwords – Use a strong, random password with a mix of letters, numbers, and symbols.
  2. Update your router firmware regularly – Outdated firmware can have security holes that hackers exploit.
  3. Disable remote management and Wi-Fi Protected Setup (WPS) – This adds another layer of protection.
  4. Use WPA3 or WPA2 encryption – If your router is older, consider upgrading to one that supports modern encryption.
  5. Set up a guest network – Protect your main network by keeping visitors or untrusted devices on a separate network.
  6. Enable your router’s firewall – It’s an extra layer of defense against threats.

What to Do if You’re Hacked
If you suspect your router has been compromised:

  1. Disconnect any unknown devices from your network.
  2. Reset your router to factory settings.
  3. Change your passwords.
  4. Scan your system with antivirus software.
  5. Update your router firmware.
  6. Report the incident to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center.

Stay safe online by securing your Wi-Fi today!