Secure your home Wi-Fi: 10 easy steps to stop hackers

When you think about your home security, you probably picture locked windows and doors, but cybercriminals are getting smarter – and they have other ways of getting into your home, but with a few simple changes, you can stay one step ahead.

If you look around your home, you’ll probably see a wealth of smart devices. TVs, laptops, tablets, phones, gaming consoles. You might also have the likes of Alexa or Google Assistant, smart thermostats, robotic vacuums, baby monitors, fridges, or video doorbells.

All these things are convenient – but they come at a cost. In fact, all of these devices can act as a potential entry point for cyberhackers.

Once they’re in, they can spy on your activity, steal your login details, and even upload malware on to your network. The good news is that securing your Wi-Fi is easier than you think.

We’re here to help you stay safe online with these simple, practical tips. 

Step 1 - Change the default router username and password

Start by changing your router’s username and password for a quick win. According to Broadband Genie, over 86% of those surveyed had never changed their router administrator password.¹

The instructions for this will vary depending on the type of router you own, however typically this is easy to do and a quick win. 

Step 2 - Give freeloaders the boot

Did you know only 25% of people check to see who’s using their home network?2

Here’s why you should discourage others from joining your network without your permission:

1.     Security – They can access your network and try to steal your personal data

2.     Privacy – If they know how, they can view your search history

3.     Performance – The more people use your internet, the slower your connection will be

4.     Cost – Depending on your data plan contract, you might have to pay more if you go over

5.     Criminal – Wi-Fi usage without permission is theft. Plus, what’s to stop anyone from using your internet to do other illegal things?

To stop this happening, check your router’s admin panel regularly to get a list of all connected devices. Remove any that you don’t recognise. If you accidentally remove one of your devices by mistake, you can easily reconnect it again later.

You can also programme your router to only allow certain devices to connect, meaning you can help stop unauthorised use going forward, too. 

Step 3 – Create a network for guests

If you want to share network access with your family or friends without worrying about security, you could create a guest Wi-Fi. It’s usually free to do and allows visitors to surf the web without getting access to your main network. Guests can’t get access to any of your personal information, and they can’t spread any malware if they have an infected device. 

Step 4 – Turn off SSID broadcasting

Your Wi-Fi name is called an SSID (Service Set Identifier). When you search for Wi-Fi, your device will show a list of available networks in your area. This is known as ‘beaconing’. By turning off SSID broadcasting, you make your network invisible to anyone who doesn’t know the name. It’s a simple way to reduce the visibility of your network and make it harder for cybercriminals to attack you. 

Step 5 - Update your SSID name

Some SSID names can be traced back to the original router manufacturer, which can make you a target if that model is known to have security issues. Changing your SSID to something else can make it harder to track. Just avoid using any personal identifiers that could help people trace it back to you, like your name or address. 

Step 6 - Disable remote administration

You might also consider disabling remote administration, which is a feature that allows you to change your Wi-Fi settings from anywhere. While this can prove useful on occasion, it can also present a security risk. Turn it off unless you really need it.

Step 7 - Enable WPA3 encryption

The latest release in Wi-Fi security is the WPA3 (Wi-Fi Protected Access 3). It encrypts your data, so hackers can’t read it.

Depending on the age of your devices, they may not be compatible with the latest release of WPA, but it’s worth checking to see if your device does. And if you’ve been looking for the perfect excuse to treat yourself to an upgraded device, this might be it. It’s a smart investment in your safety. 

Step 8 - Keep your router’s firmware up to date

Like all technology, installing software and firmware updates is a must for the safety and performance of your device. The same applies to your router. When you keep your router updated, you’re protecting your home from cyber risks.

Many routers update themselves automatically, so if yours falls into this category, then that’s one more thing you can tick off the list. Just make sure to check the instructions to be sure. 

Step 9 - Move your router to the centre of your home

Lots of people place their router close to the Ethernet port. But putting it in the centre of the house can reduce the chance of your network being intercepted by outsiders, as well as improving coverage. 

Step 10 - Turn off your Wi-Fi

If you’re away for more than a day or two, consider turning off your Wi-Fi, especially if you don’t have any smart devices that need to have a continuous connection.  It’s one of the easiest ways to stop opportunistic hackers.

Cybercriminals are constantly evolving their methods. We can help you stay ahead with good practical advice. Please speak to your usual Everywhen contact.

You can also check out our cyber insurance page to learn more or speak to a member of our team on 0330 808 1880.

Consistent with our policy when giving comments and advice on a non-specific basis, we cannot assume legal responsibility for the accuracy of any particular statement. In the case of specific problems, we recommend that professional advice be sought.

Sources:

1. https://www.broadband.co.uk/broadband/help/router-security-research

2. https://www.broadband.co.uk/broadband/help/router-security-research