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

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.

When Smart Devices Get a Mind of Their Own
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:

• 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

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.

The Simple Check You Can Do Right Now
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:

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

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.

Fortify Your First Line of Defense
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.