📡 5 Signs Your Wi-Fi Router Has Been Hacked – And What to Do

Your Wi-Fi router is more than just a gateway to the internet—it’s the front door to everything connected in your home or business. If a hacker gains access, they could track your online activity, steal personal data, infect your devices with malware, or worse.

With router attacks on the rise, it’s essential to know the warning signs and what to do if your Wi-Fi is compromised. Let’s take a look at how to tell if your router has been hacked—and how to fix it fast.

🔍 How to Tell If Your Wi-Fi Router Has Been Hacked

Cybercriminals can exploit weak passwords, outdated firmware, and DNS hijacking techniques to take control of your router. If they succeed, they can control internet traffic, install malware, and even lock you out of your own network.

Here are five clear signs your router may have been hacked:

🔹 1. Your Browser Keeps Redirecting

If you try to visit a website and keep getting sent to a completely different one—especially one full of ads or suspicious links—it could mean your router’s DNS settings have been hijacked. This technique reroutes your traffic to fake or dangerous websites.

🔹 2. Internet Speed Is Slower Than Usual

Sudden drop in speed? If your Wi-Fi feels like it’s dragging even with no one streaming or downloading, it could be a sign someone else is piggybacking on your network or your router has been compromised and is using resources to run hidden processes.

🔹 3. Your Wi-Fi Password No Longer Works

If your password stops working and you haven’t changed it, that’s a red flag. It could mean a hacker has locked you out and taken control of your network.

🔹 4. Unfamiliar Devices Are Connected

Check your router settings or mobile app for connected devices. If you spot anything unfamiliar—phones, smart TVs, or unknown IP addresses—you may have an unauthorised user on your network.

🔹 5. Unusual Network Activity or Data Usage

If your internet usage has skyrocketed without reason, or you're seeing apps and downloads you never installed across multiple devices, it could mean your router is being used as an access point for malicious activity.

🛠️ What to Do If Your Wi-Fi Router Is Hacked

Acting quickly can prevent the hacker from digging deeper into your network or spreading malware to your devices. Here’s what to do:

1. Disconnect and Reset Your Router

Unplug the router or disable Wi-Fi to cut off access immediately. Then perform a factory reset by holding the reset button (usually for 15–30 seconds) until the lights flash.

2. Change Your Passwords

Once the router is reset, create a new, secure password for your router login and your Wi-Fi network. Avoid default credentials and use a mix of letters, numbers, and symbols.

💡 Tip: Change the name of your Wi-Fi network (SSID) to something unique too—it makes it less obvious what device or provider you're using.

3. Scan All Devices for Malware

If your router was compromised, there’s a good chance your devices have been targeted too. Run a full virus scan on all PCs, phones, and tablets connected to the network, and remove anything suspicious.

4. Update the Router’s Firmware

Outdated firmware often contains security holes. Visit your router manufacturer’s website to download the latest firmware version, and install it following the official steps.

5. Contact Your Internet Service Provider

Let your ISP know what’s happened. They can confirm if your network was compromised and may assist with additional security checks or router replacement.

🔒 How to Protect Your Wi-Fi From Hackers

Once you’ve regained control, here are some essential tips to stop it from happening again:

✅ Change default login details on your router immediately

✅ Use WPA2 or WPA3 encryption (not WEP)

✅ Enable your router’s built-in firewall

✅ Set up a guest network for visitors or smart home devices

✅ Keep your firmware up to date

✅ Use a VPN if you often connect to public networks

✅ Limit admin access to specific devices or IP addresses

💡 Final Thoughts

A hacked router doesn’t just affect your Wi-Fi—it puts all of your connected devices and personal data at risk. But by recognising the signs early and taking action, you can stop hackers in their tracks.

Need help with router security, malware removal, or ongoing network protection? The team at IT Desk is here to help—whether it’s in your home, your office, or your hybrid working setup.