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

Yes, your router can be hacked. Here’s how to identify if it’s been compromised and how to protect your home network from cybercriminals.

Your Wi-Fi router could be vulnerable to hacking. According to the National Institute of Standards and Technology, there were over 200 security flaws found in routers in 2022, leaving them exposed to exploitation.

In one notable example from mid-2023, the FBI and other security agencies reported that a hacker group called BlackTech targeted Cisco routers.

However, you can take steps to prevent this. I consulted Josh Amishav, founder of Breachsense, a data monitoring service, to provide tips for safeguarding your router.

How Do Hackers Gain Access to Your Router?

Hackers often target weak passwords or insecure settings to breach your router. Once they get in, they deploy malware to gain control of your network.

Why Do Hackers Want to Control Your Router?

Once a hacker gains control of your router, they can access anything connected to it, including security cameras, computers, smart devices, and appliances. This allows them to monitor you through cameras, steal sensitive information like banking credentials, and send phishing emails.

Hackers can also use your network to carry out malicious activities, masking their true identity and location by using your IP address.

“Controlling the router gives hackers the ability to intercept, manipulate, or redirect data,” explains Amishav. “They can also spread malware or use your router to attack other systems.”

How To Spot if Your Router Has Been Hacked

Here are signs that indicate your router may be compromised:

1. Slow internet speeds: Malware can reduce the performance of your devices.
2. Passwords don’t work: If you suddenly can’t log in, hackers may have changed your credentials.
3. Website redirects: You may be sent to malicious sites that can further infect your system.
4. Fake antivirus warnings: Some hackers trick users into downloading malware disguised as antivirus software.
5. New apps or software: If you find unfamiliar software on your devices, your network may be breached.
6. Unfamiliar devices on your network: Check your router’s admin interface for unknown devices connected to your network.

How to Protect Your Router From Hackers

Fortunately, there are several ways to secure your router and prevent unauthorized access:

1. Change your passwords: Ensure both the admin and Wi-Fi passwords are strong and unique. Avoid using easy-to-guess information like birthdays. Use a combination of numbers, letters, and symbols.
2. Update your router firmware: Outdated firmware can have security vulnerabilities. Make it a habit to update your router’s firmware monthly.
3. Disable remote management: Turn off any remote management settings that allow outside access to your router.
4. Use WPA3 or WPA2 encryption: Older routers may use WPA or WEP encryption, which is outdated and less secure. If your router supports WPA3 or WPA2, enable it.
5. Turn off WPS and UPnP: These features make it easier for hackers to gain access to your network. Disable them in your router settings.
6. Set up a guest network: For visitors or untrusted devices, use a guest network to protect your primary network from potential malware.
7. Activate your router’s firewall: Ensure your router’s built-in firewall is turned on for added protection.
8. Use a VPN: Setting up a VPN on your router adds an extra layer of privacy and security.

What to Do If You’ve Been Hacked

If you suspect your router has been compromised, follow these steps:

1. Disconnect unfamiliar devices: Log in to your router’s admin interface and disconnect any devices you don’t recognize.
2. Reset your router: Restore your router to its factory settings to remove any malware.
3. Change your passwords: Create strong, new passwords for both the router admin panel and your Wi-Fi network.
4. Scan for malware: Use antivirus software to scan your devices for any malicious code.
5. Update your firmware: Download the latest firmware from your router’s manufacturer website to fix any vulnerabilities.
6. Report the hack: File a report with the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) to help track and prevent cybercrime.

By following these steps, you can secure your router and protect your home network from hackers.