15 Must-Know Wi-Fi Security Hacks That Will Save Your Thanksgiving
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If there’s one thing we don’t want this Thanksgiving, it’s unwanted guests – and no, we aren’t referring to your second cousin’s roommate just dropping by unannounced.
If your home Wi-Fi network isn’t secured, hackers and freeloaders can sneak right on and steal data, slow down your internet, or even make you miss out on your holiday binge session. Here are 15 simple but effective Wi-Fi security hacks to stay secure while you focus on the turkey, stuffing, and pumpkin pie.
Change Default Settings
The problem is that your router’s default username and password is in essence an open invitation to hackers. Change them immediately to something really strong, unique and unguessable. For example, “Pumpk1nSp1c3Latte4Eva” (but maybe skip the seasonal references).
Update Firmware
If you don’t have the latest router firmware, a lot could go wrong. Updates are regularly released by manufacturers to patch vulnerabilities, so keep checking their website or the settings on your router to check that you’re up to date.
Enable Encryption
You don’t need to be a tech whiz to understand what WPA2 encryption is all about; it’s your best friend to help secure your Wi-Fi. Your data is scrambled so that even if hackers can intercept it, they can’t read it.
Pro tip: Stay away from older encryption standards like WEP; they’re as secure as your grandmother’s AOL password from 1999.
Disable Unnecessary Features
Disable remote management, and WPS (Wi-Fi protected setup) as well as UPnP (universal plug-and-play) on your router. They are convenient, but they also make it easier for hackers to access your network.
Create a Guest Network
And while no shade to your Thanksgiving guests, you may definitely not want their devices to be on your main network. Create a rogue Wi-Fi network just for them— keep it away from your primary network and, if possible keep it guest only to avoid spreading malware.
Use a VPN
Think of your internet traffic as your secret note passed under the table, but you don’t know who is watching. A virtual private network (VPN) encrypts your local traffic so that no one can snoop on your data.
Enable Firewall
Think of your router’s built-in firewall as the bouncer at a club keeping out the unwanted guests. Just be sure it’s turned on for an additional layer of protection.
Place Your Router Strategically
If you can, put your router in the middle of the house so it’s less likely that outsiders can pick up too much signal. Bonus points if it also makes your Netflix streaming speed much faster while in the living room.
Change your Wi-Fi Password Regularly
How long has it been since you last changed your Wi-Fi password? If it’s been over 6 months (or if you honestly can’t remember what that password was without the password reset), it’s definitely time to change it. A password that is refreshed regularly means if it is cracked the intruder doesn’t have access for long.
Verify Connected Devices
Review the devices connected to your network for a second. You don’t have a “Samsung Galaxy Excelsior 3000,” huh? Kick that one out, stat.
Enable MAC Address Filtering
You can even turn on MAC address filtering on your router for some extra control. It’s like running a VIP list on your network—only required devices can join.
Disable Wi-Fi When Away
If you’re going to be out of town for Thanksgiving, simply turn off your Wi-Fi network. The fact of the matter is that without a wireless signal, no hacker can get in, and you have energy savings! Win-win.
Be Cautious with Public Wi-Fi
We understand that it’s easy to be tempted by the coffee shop Wi-Fi while you’re waiting for your flight. However, public networks are the hackers’ hunting ground. If you need to connect, do so over VPN.
Watch for Phishing Attempts
Phishing scams are at an all-time high during the holiday season. Don’t click on the emails offering “Free Thanksgiving Feast Coupons.” Be on the lookout for anything suspicious.
Keep Devices Updated
Upgrading your software doesn’t sound fun, but it does fill in some security holes. Prior to Thanksgiving dinner, run the device update and check that your antivirus protection is switched on.
Disclaimer – This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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