ALL Wi-Fi users should make sure their networks are safe – or it could end up costing you.
A leading cyber-expert has revealed key tips to The U.S. Sun on how to stay safe from Wi-Fi hijackers.
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If you ignore any of the four tips, you could end up out of pocket.
Brad Freeman, Director of Technology at SenseOn, said there are four things all Wi-Fi owners must check.
There are several reasons why a compromised Wi-Fi network can cost you some serious cash.
The first is that if hackers can break into your Wi-Fi network, they could spy on you, unleash malware, and control your devices.
This potentially allows them to steal your money, or take enough private info to defraud or extort you.
People could also hijack your Wi-Fi network and break past your monthly data allowance if you have one – racking up charges.
Similarly, nearby Wi-Fi squatters could use so much bandwidth that your network becomes slow – so you may end up feeling like you have to pay for a more expensive plan that you need.
That’s why making sure you have a safe Wi-Fi network is extremely important.
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The first tip is to make sure you’re keeping your devices updated.
“Make sure you apply security patches to your phones, tablets, and computers as soon as practicable,” Brad told The U.S. Sun.
If you’ve got device that haven’t been updated in a long time, that’s a dangerous sign.
Updates generally fix security holes that could be exploited by cyber-criminals.
So download security updates as soon as they’re available – they’re usually free and install very quickly.
The second warning sign is when your Wi-Fi network is still using the default login details.
“Consider changing the default credentials of your home Wi-Fi network,” Brad explained.
Log in to your Wi-Fi router by typing http://192.168.1.1 into a web browser and hitting enter.
You’ll be able to change your login details there.
The third danger sign is when your computer doesn’t have the correct security settings.
“If you have a laptop or desktop computer, make sure the firewall is enabled and anti-virus remains on,” Brad warned.
This is a very easy fix and can keep you safe from common cyber-attacks.
And the final mistake you might make is using one Wi-Fi network for everything.
“Create a guest network if your home Wi-Fi supports it,” Brad suggested.
Use the steps above to log in to your Wi-Fi router, and then look for the options to set up a guest network.
Once that’s done, share the new guest network name and password with guests that are visiting.
