Most network routers have default credentials such as “admin” for a username and “password” for a password, neither of which requires much work to guess. Whatever the default credentials, they’re always the same on any given router model, making it a good idea to change these credentials as soon as you set up your router. […]

While it’s vital to have a strong Wi-Fi password, hiding your Wi-Fi network’s name adds an extra layer of security. This can help conceal its existence entirely, providing access only to users who know it’s there. The option to do this in a router’s configuration page is listed as “Disable SSID broadcasting” or similar.  

Lots of the latest smart TVs include automatic content recognition (ACR), which studies everything you view on the device – whether it’s streamed over the internet, cable, or via broadcast television – and uploads this information to a server for use in a recommendation engine. To guard your privacy, turn off this setting; its name […]

Cybercriminals can potentially access the feeds from your webcam and microphone without your permission. Turn both of these off when you’re not using them, or even better, disconnect them entirely. Also, if you work from home and need to join conference video calls for work, think about keeping your private home protected by using background […]

If you live in an area with a dense population, you’ll want to be sure there aren’t any bad actors sapping the speed of your Wi-Fi. Virtually all routers can tell you what connections are being used at any given time. Check your router’s configuration page to make sure that only approved users are using […]

To stop outsiders from simply accessing your network, avoid broadcasting your SSID. All Wi-Fi routers allow users to shield their device’s SSID, which makes it more difficult for attackers to locate a network. At the very least, alter your SSID to something unique. Leaving it as the manufacturer’s default could allow a possible attacker to […]