Is Your Wi-Fi Network Hacked? Here’s How to Tell and Fix It

Is Your Wi-Fi Network Hacked? Here’s How to Tell and Fix It

If your internet seems slower than usual, devices are dropping off the network, or you’re seeing unfamiliar devices connected—your Wi-Fi network might be hacked. At ABQ Computer Pros, we help Albuquerque homeowners and businesses lock down their Wi-Fi networks and kick out unwanted intruders.

Let’s go over how Wi-Fi hacks happen, the warning signs to watch for, and what you can do to regain control and protect your data.

How Does a Wi-Fi Hack Happen?

Wi-Fi network hacking usually happens when the network is:

  • Using a weak password (or none at all)

  • Running on outdated router firmware

  • Using old or insecure encryption like WEP instead of WPA2 or WPA3

  • Exposing remote access settings or default admin credentials

Hackers can gain access from nearby—sometimes from a parked car outside—then use your connection to:

  • Steal sensitive data

  • Monitor online activity

  • Install malware on connected devices

  • Send spam or launch attacks from your IP address

Signs Your Wi-Fi May Be Compromised

Here’s what to watch for:

  • Slow internet speeds, even when only one device is connected

  • Unfamiliar devices showing up on your network

  • Devices being disconnected randomly

  • Changes to your Wi-Fi settings you didn’t make

  • Inability to log into your router’s admin page

  • New browser popups or strange redirects

  • A warning from your ISP about unusual activity

If any of these are happening, it’s time to act.

What to Do If Your Wi-Fi Is Hacked

  1. Disconnect all devices from the network immediately.

  2. Access your router settings via its IP address (usually 192.168.0.1 or 192.168.1.1).

  3. Change your Wi-Fi network name (SSID) and set a strong new password.

  4. Update your router firmware—this patches known security flaws.

  5. Enable WPA2 or WPA3 encryption for the best protection.

  6. Disable remote management unless you truly need it.

  7. Reset the router to factory settings if you suspect deep compromise.

👉 Need help? At ABQ Computer Pros, we can remotely or onsite secure your network and remove intruders.

How to Prevent Future Hacks

  • Use a strong, unique Wi-Fi password—not your name or “123456”

  • Change your router admin password (the one used to log in to settings)

  • Turn off WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup), which can be exploited

  • Regularly check connected devices

  • Set up a guest network for visitors

  • Use firewall settings to block suspicious traffic

These small steps go a long way in keeping your digital life secure.

Let ABQ Computer Pros Lock Down Your Wi-Fi

We specialize in securing home and business Wi-Fi networks across Albuquerque. Whether you're dealing with a slow connection, suspicious activity, or want a full security tune-up, our friendly techs have your back.

📍 Locally trusted. Fast service. Real solutions.

💬 Call ABQ Computer Pros today for a full Wi-Fi security audit and stop hackers before they get in. Peace of mind is just one fix away.

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Data Breaches: What They Are and How to Protect Your Information

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