The Today Show had a segment this week about a man in Florida, named Malcolm Riddell, who’s wireless router was accessed or ‘stolen’ by a criminal in order to release child pornography. Riddell had no idea what was passing through his internet connection or who was using his wireless internet until the FBI stormed in to shut down the criminal activity! After further investigation, the real criminal was found, blocks away, and arrested.
The Dangers of Wireless Internet
Do you know who is using your internet? If you have a wireless router, the answer may be no. A quick search on Google reveals over 400,000 hits on how to steal your wireless internet. As Malcolm Riddell discovered, not securing your wireless Internet can be dangerous and turn into a major headache. Not only can a criminal use your wireless Internet to commit crimes, they can also use it to hack into your computers, infect your computers with viruses, and steal personal and confidential information.
Protect Your Wireless Internet
Does this mean you should stop using wireless Internet? Absolutely not! Wireless routers provide excellent Internet access, the flexibility to use the Internet anywhere in your home, and the ability to maintain the peace in your household as multiple family members can have access at the same time. In fact, there are a few, simple precautions you can take to keep your wireless Internet, computers, and family safe.
Set Up a Password for Your Wireless Internet
Simply taking the time to set up a password for your wireless network is incredibly important. By doing this, your network is no longer the thief’s lowest hanging fruit. Your wireless router should come with instructions on how to set up a password, either in a booklet or on a CD. If you have lost the manual, you should be able to find instructions for your model online, or you can contact the maker of your router. If you need assistance in setting this, or your network, in general, up, we have certified technicians through Geek On Call that can help you in your home or business.
Block Websites Using Your Wireless Internet Router and Firewall
Second, block unwanted websites using your router and firewall. We’ve talked about this before and you can find step by step instructions here. Many Internet service providers, provide firewall/routers for free but if they do not, a firewall is a great investment when it comes to keeping your family safe. By setting your firewall to stop access to unwanted websites, you can prevent situations like the one that happened to Malcolm Riddell. Here are instructions on using your firewall to block websites.
Keep Your Computer Safe When on the Internet with Anti-Virus Software
Third, make sure you have anti-virus software and it is up to date. Our virus prevention tips can be found here. Not only is this incredibly important in preventing viruses, malware, and Trojans, it can stop the spread of an infected computer if it does access your network. Some Internet service providers, such as Comcast, give their customers free anti-virus software, as do some schools and businesses, so be sure to check with them to see what is offered. There are also several very good, free, anti-virus programs available for download. These include MalwareBytes and MS Security Essentials.
Follow these steps and you will be better protected from wireless Internet thieves who may be doing more with your Internet than just stealing your bandwidth. If you would like a certified technician to help ensure your wireless Internet is secure, please visit us at www.TurnKeyOffice.net or call 1(800) 905-GEEK(4335).
Do you have more suggestions on how to protect your wireless Internet? Please share them below.
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