How to Tell If Your Home Router Has Been Hacked

It can be really unsettling to think your home network might be compromised. This guide will help you figure out if your Wi-Fi router has been hacked, and how to tell the difference between a hacked router and a single device that might have been compromised.

Why Your Router is a Key Target

Your router is like the main gatekeeper of your home internet connection. All your devices, from your smartphone to your smart TV, connect through it to access the internet. If a hacker gains control of your router, they could potentially snoop on your online activities, redirect you to fake websites, or even use your internet for their own malicious purposes.

Router vs. Device: What's the Difference?

It's easy to confuse a hacked router with a hacked individual device, like your laptop or phone. If only one device is acting strangely (e.g., slow performance, weird pop-ups on just that device), it's more likely that specific device has been compromised. However, if multiple devices connected to your Wi-Fi are experiencing similar issues, or you notice odd behaviour with your internet service itself, your router might be the problem.

• If only one device is affected, focus on securing that device first.
• If many devices are acting up, especially with internet access, investigate your router.

Signs Your Router Might Be Hacked

There are several clues that could point to a compromised router. Keep an eye out for these red flags, which can indicate that someone else is in control of your network.

• Unexpectedly slow internet speeds across all devices, even after restarting your modem and router.
• Redirected web searches or being taken to websites you didn't intend to visit.
• New, unfamiliar network names (SSIDs) appearing in your Wi-Fi list.
• Unusual activity on your router's administration page (if you can access it).
• Your router's lights blinking unusually, especially if you're not actively using the internet.

Check Your Router's Settings

One of the most direct ways to check for router compromise is to log into its administration page. This is where you can see and change your router's settings. Look for anything that seems out of place.

• Open a web browser and type in your router's IP address (often found on a sticker on the router itself, or by searching online for your router model).
• Log in with your administrator username and password (if you haven't changed it, it might still be the default — change it immediately!).
• Look for unfamiliar settings, especially in sections like 'DNS' (Domain Name System), 'Port Forwarding', 'Firewall', or 'Wireless Settings'.
• Check the list of connected devices. Do you recognise all of them?

What to Do If You Suspect Your Router is Hacked

If you find suspicious activity or confirm your router has been compromised, don't panic. Here are the immediate steps you should take to secure your network.

• Immediately disconnect all devices from your Wi-Fi network.
• Change your router's administration password to a strong, unique one.
• Perform a factory reset on your router (this will revert it to its original settings – you'll need to set up your Wi-Fi name and password again).
• Update your router's firmware (this is the router's operating system) to the latest version.
• Change the passwords for all your online accounts, especially banking and email, as a precaution.

Key takeaway

Understanding the signs of a hacked router is your first line of defence. By regularly checking your router's settings and being aware of unusual network behaviour, you can protect your entire home network from potential threats. Stay vigilant and take action promptly if you notice anything suspicious.