How to detect if someone’s stealing your WiFi

If you suspect someone might be stealing your WiFi, here are some steps to detect and confirm unauthorized access:

1. Check for Unfamiliar Devices

• Log in to your router’s admin panel:
  • Open a web browser and enter your router’s IP address (usually something like 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1).
  • Enter the admin username and password (check the router label or your manual if unsure).
• Check connected devices:
  • Look for a list of devices connected to your network, often under sections like “Attached Devices” or “Client List.”
  • Identify all devices. Any unfamiliar ones could be intruders.

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2. Use a Network Monitoring App

• Download apps like Fing (iOS/Android) or software such as Wireshark (PC/Mac).
• These tools provide a detailed list of devices connected to your network, often with device names and manufacturers to help you identify them.

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3. Monitor WiFi Speeds and Data Usage

• If your internet speed seems unusually slow, it could be due to someone else using the bandwidth.
• Check your data usage via your Internet Service Provider’s app or the router’s admin panel to spot unusual spikes.

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4. Temporarily Disconnect All Known Devices

• Turn off or disconnect all your devices from the WiFi.
• If the network still shows activity or connected devices, an intruder is likely present.

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5. Look for Changes in Router Settings

• Check for any changes in your WiFi name (SSID), password, or security settings that you didn’t make.
• Some intruders might alter settings to maintain access.

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6. Enable Router Logs

• Many routers can log connection attempts.
• Enable logs in the router settings to track who is trying to connect to your network.

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What to Do If You Find Intruders

1. Change Your WiFi Password Immediately:
   • Use a strong, unique password with a mix of letters, numbers, and symbols.
   • Update all your devices with the new password.
2. Enable WPA3 or WPA2 Encryption:
   • Ensure your network security is set to WPA2 or WPA3, not WEP (which is outdated and easily hacked).
3. Enable a Guest Network:
   • Set up a separate network for visitors with limited access.
4. Turn Off SSID Broadcasting (Optional):
   • This hides your network from casual discovery, though determined intruders can still find it.
5. Limit IP Addresses:
   • Configure the DHCP settings on your router to allow only a set number of IP addresses based on your device count.
6. Regularly Update Your Router Firmware:
   • Check for updates to fix vulnerabilities that hackers could exploit.

By regularly monitoring your network and applying robust security measures, you can prevent and detect unauthorised access effectively.