Wi-Fi can be used by hackers to SPY on you if you’re not careful – here are five ways to protect yourself

WI-FI can be used by hackers to spy on you through your search history, which can have devastating impacts.

It’s remarkable how much we reveal about ourselves indirectly through our Google searches.

Lagging internet speeds is one tell tale sign that someone else is snooping around on your networkCredit: Getty

For example, when we might be leaving home to going on holiday, or even what kind of security system we have – and of course, our saved passwords and financial details.

How will I know if I’m being spied on?

Lagging internet speeds is one tell tale sign that someone else is snooping around on your network.

A spike in internet bill and data usage, when you still have the same number of devices connected, is also another early signal.

How can I protect myself?

There’s a few things you can do.

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But firstly, you’ll need to access your router’s settings – which can be done inside your broadband provider’s app.

Create a strong and unique password for your home network
- Don’t forget to use a combination of numbers, special characters, and letters in your password.
Enable network encryption
- This will ensure that all of your Wi-Fi activity with be put into a code to prevent unauthorised access.
Reduce the wireless signal range
- This will help prevent hackers from connecting to your Wi-Fi by limiting the space they have to do so.
Update the router’s firmware
- Occasionally you should check your network providers site to ensure that your router runs the the most up-to-date firmware so it remains secure against hackers.
Make use of your guest network
- If you’re able to create a guest network, then you can make use of it. The guest network simply gives Wi-Fi access to your close ones, without allowing them to access the whole network.