How to Check if Your Internet is Hacked (And What to Do)
A Guide to Securing Your Network
What Does 'Hacked Internet' Mean?
First, let's clear something up. Your "internet" itself can't really be hacked. The internet is a huge, global network. When you feel "hacked," it almost always means one of two things:
- Your Wi-Fi Router is Hacked: This is the most common. An attacker gains access to your router's settings. This is bad because they can see all your traffic, redirect you to fake websites, or let their own devices use your internet.
- A Device is Hacked: Your computer, phone, or smart TV has a virus or malware. This device is using your internet to do bad things, which can make your whole network slow and unstable.
This guide will focus on checking your router, which is the gateway to your whole home network.
Warning Signs of a Hacked Network
How can you tell if someone is messing with your network? Look for these common red flags. One sign might be a coincidence, but if you see two or three, it's time to investigate.
Sudden Slow Speeds
Is your internet suddenly crawling for no reason? If an intruder is downloading huge files or using your connection, it will slow everyone else down.
Unknown Devices on Network
You see a "Jenna's iPhone" or an "Unknown PC" in your device list, but no one in your house owns one. This is a major warning sign.
Router Settings Changed
You log in to your router and find the Wi-Fi password is different, or strange settings like "DNS Forwarding" are turned on. This means someone else has been in there.
You Can't Log In
You try to log in to your router's settings, but your password doesn't work. A hacker might have changed it to lock you out.
Step-by-Step Guide to Check Your Router
The best place to find an intruder is by logging into your router's admin page. This is like the 'control panel' for your whole network.
- Step 1: Find Your Router's Address. On a Windows PC, open Command Prompt and type `ipconfig`. Look for the "Default Gateway". It's usually `192.168.1.1` or `192.168.0.1`.
- Step 2: Log In. Type that address into your web browser. You'll need the admin username and password. This is often on a sticker on the router itself. (If it's still "admin" and "password", that's a huge security risk!).
- Step 3: Check the "Connected Devices" List. Find the page that says "Connected Devices," "Device List," or "My Network." This shows every phone, PC, and smart TV using your Wi-Fi.
- Step 4: Investigate. Go through the list. Do you recognise everything? If you see a "PS5" but you only own an Xbox, or an "Unknown Device," you may have an intruder. You can often kick them off from this page.
What to Do if You Find an Intruder (Action Plan)
If you find a strange device or think you've been hacked, don't panic. Follow these steps immediately to lock them out and secure your network.
- Disconnect the Internet: Unplug the main internet cable (WAN) from your router. This cuts off the hacker's access.
- Log In and Change Admin Password: While disconnected, log in to your router (`192.168.1.1`). Find the "Settings" or "Admin" page and change the router's login password to something new and strong.
- Change Your Wi-Fi Password: Go to the "Wi-Fi" or "Wireless" settings. Change your Wi-Fi password (the one you give to friends) to something new. Use WPA3 or WPA2 security.
- Reboot and Reconnect: Restart your router. Plug the internet cable back in. You will need to reconnect all your *own* devices with the new Wi-Fi password. The hacker will be locked out.
- Factory Reset (If you can't log in): If the hacker locked you out, find the tiny "reset" button on the router. Hold it down for 10-15 seconds. This wipes all settings, so you will need to set up your network from scratch using the default login on the sticker.
How to Secure Your Wi-Fi (Prevention)
The best defence is a good offence. Here are the simple things everyone should do to keep their home network safe from the start.
| Action | Why It's Important |
|---|---|
| Change Admin Password | This is the #1 rule. Hackers know the default "admin" password. Change it to something unique. |
| Use WPA3 or WPA2 | This is your Wi-Fi password's security type. Never use old, weak types like WEP or WPA. WPA3 is the best. |
| Use a Guest Network | Most routers let you create a "Guest" Wi-Fi network. Give this password to visitors. It keeps them off your main network and away from your private devices. |
| Update Your Router | Log in to your router settings and check for "Firmware Updates." These updates patch security holes that hackers use. |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can my internet itself be hacked?
Not exactly. The "internet" is a global network. When people say their internet is "hacked", they almost always mean their Wi-Fi router or a device on their network (like a computer) has been compromised.
What is the most important step to secure my router?
Changing the router's admin password. This is not your Wi-Fi password. It's the password you use to log in to the router's settings page (often at 192.168.1.1). Hackers know the default passwords (like 'admin' or 'password') and use them to take over.
Will a VPN stop my router from being hacked?
A VPN encrypts the traffic from one device (like your laptop). It does not secure your router itself. You still need a strong router admin password and a WPA3/WPA2 Wi-Fi password to protect your whole network.