How to check if someone’s stealing your Wi-Fi and how to block them

Securing your Wi-Fi network is crucial to prevent unauthorised access and ensure optimal performance. If you suspect that someone might be stealing your Wi-Fi, there are several indicators and steps you can take to verify and protect your network.

From identifying suspicious activities to implementing security measures, here’s how you can safeguard your Wi-Fi from potential intruders.

Monitoring your network activity

The first step in detecting unauthorised access to your Wi-Fi is to monitor your network activity. Most modern routers offer built-in tools that allow you to view a list of connected devices.

Access your router’s administration interface through a web browser using its IP address (commonly something like 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1) and look for a section labelled “Connected Devices” or “Device List.” Here, you will be able to see a list of devices currently connected to your Wi-Fi network.

Identifying suspicious devices

Once you have accessed the list of connected devices, look for any unfamiliar or suspicious entries. Pay attention to the device names and MAC addresses (unique identifiers assigned to each network device).

ALSO READ: 7 ways to stay safe and secure on the web 

Devices with generic names or MAC addresses that do not match those of your household devices could indicate unauthorised access. Note down these details to further investigate their origin.

Checking router logs and traffic

Router logs provide valuable information about the activities on your network, including connection attempts and data traffic. Check the router logs for any unusual entries or repeated failed login attempts, which may indicate someone attempting to gain access to your network.

Some routers also allow you to monitor real-time traffic, showing data usage and the websites being accessed by connected devices. Anomalies in data usage patterns can signal unauthorised usage.

Securing your Wi-Fi network

To prevent further unauthorised access and protect your Wi-Fi network, implement the following security measures:

1. Change your Wi-Fi password:

Update your Wi-Fi password regularly to a strong, complex combination of letters, numbers, and special characters. Avoid using easily guessable passwords or default settings provided by the router manufacturer. 

2. Enable network encryption:

Ensure that your Wi-Fi network is encrypted with WPA2 (Wi-Fi Protected Access 2) or WPA3 security protocols. Encryption scrambles data transmitted between devices, making it unreadable to unauthorised users. 

3. Disable SSID broadcasting:

Disable the broadcasting of your Wi-Fi network’s SSID (Service Set Identifier), making it invisible to devices scanning for available networks. Users will need to manually enter the network name to connect, adding an extra layer of security. 

4. Use MAC address filtering:

Enable MAC address filtering on your router to allow only specific devices with known MAC addresses to connect to your Wi-Fi network. This restricts access to devices that are explicitly permitted by you.

Blocking unauthorised devices

If you have identified specific devices that are stealing your Wi-Fi, you can block them from accessing your network: 

1. Access router settings:

Log into your router’s administration interface and navigate to the “MAC Address Filtering” or “Access Control” section. 

2. Add MAC addresses to block list:

Enter the MAC addresses of the unauthorised devices into the block list. Save the changes, and your router will deny access to these devices when they attempt to connect to your Wi-Fi network. 

3. Monitor and update security settings:

Regularly monitor your network activity and update your security settings as needed. Change passwords periodically and review connected devices to ensure continued security. 

ALSO READ: Wi-Fi unable to connect to the internet? Here are 5 easy ways to fix it 

Securing your Wi-Fi network from potential intruders requires vigilance and proactive measures. By monitoring network activity, identifying suspicious devices, and implementing robust security protocols, you can protect your personal data and ensure a reliable internet connection. Regularly update your router’s firmware and security settings to stay ahead of potential threats. By taking these steps, you can safeguard your Wi-Fi network and enjoy a safe and secure online experience.