Buzz
All our devices are susceptible to prying eyes from malicious individuals, and your Wi-Fi network is no exception. If you observe the following signs, your Wifi might have been compromised, and immediate protective measures are necessary to avoid further serious consequences.
Wifi Speed Reduction
A clear sign that someone is illicitly utilizing your Wifi is a sudden drop in speed without any apparent explanation. This manifests as longer loading times for videos, sluggish website loading, and inconsistent performance in online games.
If you notice a decrease in network speed or an unusual increase in usage during the month, it's highly likely that someone has infiltrated your network and is using your Internet connection.
Altered Settings
Most hackers operate by sneaking into the network system and altering settings to facilitate exploitation. This type of attack enables cybercriminals to monitor, control, or redirect Internet traffic. For instance, if the DNS on your router is compromised, when accessing your bank's website to conduct transactions, you could be redirected to a fake website. Consequently, your sensitive banking information could be exposed.
Check if the following factors have been altered:
- WiFi password
- Signal frequency
- Self-moving computer screen cursor
You can also try checking your network router by visiting the website: https://www.f-secure.com/en/home/free-tools/router-checker.
Press Check your router.
If you see the message No issues were found on your router, it means no errors were detected. Regardless of the result, you can also press View results in detail to see more information.
Presence of unidentified devices
As a network administrator, you have the authority to access logs indicating which devices are currently connected to the network. Mytour has also published an article on checking who is using your WiFi. If you notice unfamiliar devices connected to the network, not belonging to your household, it's certain that hackers have attempted to access the network.
Disabled antivirus application
Typically, when a hacker gains access to WiFi, their first action is to disable the firewall and other antivirus programs installed on the computer. If you find that your firewall has been disabled without your knowledge, it could be a sign that hackers have infiltrated your network.
Unusual notifications
Once the intruder gains access to your network, the next step is to compromise the connected devices. Your computer screen may constantly receive strange messages containing virus files. These files are often shared from closed networks controlled by cybercriminals.
Strange software on your PC
Ultimately, the most significant sign of a security breach is the appearance of unfamiliar and unidentified programs on your computer. These programs have been installed by hackers to cause harm. Their purpose ranges from stealing personal information online to the possibility of hijacking your device and using it for illegal activities.
If you notice an unfamiliar program on your PC that you don't remember installing, do not open it under any circumstances. Search online for information about that software and run antivirus software to scan files and determine if they pose a threat.
Conclusion
Once you've identified that your network is under attack, it's time to take remedial steps. Disconnect your device and other devices from the network to prevent the attacker from accessing them. Then, call the hotline of your Internet service provider (Viettel, VNPT, etc.) for assistance.
