The vast majority of internet users admit they don't have a password protecting their home Wi-Fi connection, potentially exposing them to possible cyberattacks, according to a new study.
A PC Matic report found that 89% of people didn't have a password set on their router, while 7% weren't even sure if they had a password or not.
Changing passwords also seems to be a problem, with only 9% of users who said they protect their Wi-Fi with a password never changing it. Additionally, 9% admit they wouldn't know how to do it, and 37% haven't changed their passwords since the initial router setup and factory override.
Basic internet security
However, it is not all bad news, as some people are paying more attention to the cybersecurity of their virtual premises. Nearly a quarter (23%) said they change their Wi-Fi passwords once a year and another fifth (22%) once a month (up 4% year over year).
Securing your router is arguably the most important thing you can do to protect your home or business from cyber incursions. Routers serve as a hub for all Internet-connected endpoints (opens in a new tab), such as computers, smartphones, but also IoT devices such as smart speakers, smart home appliances, etc.
With an insecure router, a malicious actor could not only use up all the data and slow down network performance, but could also use known vulnerabilities in the routers, or the devices themselves, to access or even steal sensitive data. for future identity theft and similar cyberattacks.
In addition to protecting home Wi-Fi with a password, users are advised to update the firmware of their routers regularly, as these updates protect devices from dangerous vulnerabilities.
Via: AtlasVPN (Opens in a new tab)