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Is your Wi-Fi secure? A hidden hack can expose digital intruders in seconds

Is your Wi-Fi secure? A hidden hack can expose digital intruders in seconds

Time of India29-07-2025
When Smart Devices Get a Mind of Their Own
Slower internet speeds, even when no one is streaming
Devices you don't recognize on your network
Odd behavior from smart gadgets
High, unexplained router usage
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The Simple Check You Can Do Right Now
Open a browser on any Wi-Fi-connected device Type in your router address (usually 192.168.0.1 or 192.168.1.1) Log in using the password Navigate to Home Network > Connected Devices or Overview
Fortify Your First Line of Defense
The internet is no longer confined to computers and cables. With smart TVs, speakers, fridges, and even doorbells talking to each other, your Wi-Fi is more than just a convenience—it's the central nervous system of your home. But what if that very network, buzzing quietly in the background, is a silent threat?As lightning-fast 6G speeds loom on the horizon, promising to download 20 movies in a second, a crucial question arises: is your Wi-Fi secure? A recent PCWorld report warns that a weak Wi-Fi network is like 'an open door to your life'—and not just to nosy neighbours. Cybercriminals no longer need to break down doors. An unprotected Wi-Fi network can give them a free pass into your home, letting them snoop on data or worse—exploit your smart devices. Think lights flickering for no reason, speakers talking unprompted, or strange devices showing up in your connected list.Signs your network might be compromised include:Beyond the inconvenience, there's a darker side. If a hacker uses your network for illegal downloads, you could be held legally responsible—even if you weren't aware.Thankfully, finding out if your Wi-Fi is under siege doesn't require technical wizardry. PCWorld lays out an easy hack to see who's connected to your network:You'll see a list of all devices, complete with names, IP addresses, and MAC addresses. If something looks unfamiliar, your Wi-Fi might have uninvited guests. Most routers offer the option to block unknown devices. But your next move should be more aggressive—change your Wi-Fi password immediately.Experts recommend using WPA2 or WPA3 encryption for maximum protection and setting a strong, unpredictable password with at least 12 characters that includes a mix of upper and lower-case letters, numbers, and special characters. Avoid easy-to-guess names and don't reuse passwords from other platforms.There are also apps available to help monitor device connections and alert you to suspicious activity. But ultimately, vigilance is key.
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