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I have a desktop(Which is my primary computer), and I have a laptop as well. The laptop uses "wi-fi" from the router at my desktop... I think that's correct.
My "hacking" question is... how easy would it be for someone to be able to hack into my DESKTOP(Which uses the router) and go through my e-mails? I'm talking about someone who lives VERY CLOSE to me.
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Well... I've had this router(Comcast) for a little over a year, so I guess it's new. And I think there's a password for the router as WELL as the wifi... is that a good thing? And also, there's an ADDITIONAL password requied for my e-mail(NOT a Comcast e-mail account, BTW), so I guess that's even better?
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Posted: |
Jun 21, 2018 - 11:23 PM
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By: |
Drawgoon
(Member)
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It is relatively easy to break into WiFi routers. Once one breaks into a WiFi network it also becomes easy to find out the type of devices connected to the router in that network, as well as the devices' network addresses. If an intruder is geeky enough, they may further configure their device with the right tools and software to sniff all the traffic that goes through the network by other devices. But they must want to get dirt on you real bad to go this far.
There are all kinds of uses for breaking into a WiFi network but going through one's emails is probably not a common one. WiFi networks get hacked so that the attacker gets to free ride your internet connection, or use your connection for other malicious goals. Remember, when an internet connection is used for wrongdoing, the legal owner of the internet connection is the one who faces all the charges.
Moving back to your query about going through your emails, it is possible. Easiest way is get direct access to your machine(s), which should be a walk in the park if you are the type that leaves PCs on even when you are not around or using them. It is also possible for the WiFi intruder to extract your password(s) and logon to the account themselves, or maybe sniff the stuff you read or send, though like I said earlier they must be real desperate to break into your life if they go this far.
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So, in other words... it'd be more trouble than it's worth and I have nothing to worry about.... ?
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Posted: |
Jun 22, 2018 - 12:55 AM
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By: |
Drawgoon
(Member)
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So, in other words... it'd be more trouble than it's worth and I have nothing to worry about.... ?
If it is your emails you are concerned about then don't worry too much about your router. Just concentrate on your operating system, browser, firewall and antivirus and make sure they are all configured and up-to-date. Also be cautious about emails you open, the links you click on or the software you install, etc. These areas are what I'd like to call "Express Entry Points" to your private data.
Regardless, it is always wise to look after your router and WiFi security too. Some best practices include:
- Update your router's firmware.
- Change WiFi password and Router password regularly. (They are two different credentials. Never use the same combinations for both)
- Do not broadcast your WiFi name. There should be a router setting that enables you to hide the WiFi name, which means the next time you toggle on the WiFi on any devices, you won't see your WiFi router's name on the list. You need to know and type in the WiFi name and the password to get connected. Of course, devices that are already hooked up will stay that way. You don't have to do it every time.
- Disable WiFi on your current router. Get a separate device that only does WiFi routing and hook that to your router. Turn off this WiFi box when you don't need it.
Steps for the above vary from one router to another. Look for instructions on the manufacturer's website.
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In addition to the router password, you can limit the MAC addresses that access your network. Each device has a unique MAC address.
I have zero idea what the hell that is! 
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