Wi-Fi has become a crucial part of UK households, serving as a lifeline for entertainment, work, and keeping our internet connectivity intact. However, despite the focus on speed and optimizing downloads, many UK broadband users are overlooking basic safety measures.
According to new research from Broadband Genie, a large number of Brits simply set up their router and then forget about it. This means that passwords are left unchanged and important software updates are not installed.
A survey of over 3,000 UK internet users by Broadband Genie found that 9 out of 10 people admitted they had never updated their router firmware, and most had never changed the administrator password. This could potentially leave broadband vulnerable to cyber attacks.
When asked why they hadn’t changed the default settings, many respondents confessed they didn’t see the need for it. Another concerning statistic is the number of people who never check what devices are connected to their network, which could lead to slower speeds or security risks.
Oliver Devane, Senior Security Researcher at McAfee, emphasized the importance of securing Wi-Fi settings, stating that default settings can be exploited by cybercriminals. He advised keeping firmware up to date and changing the default router password to enhance security.
To improve cybersecurity, experts recommend regularly updating passwords and software for Wi-Fi. Keeping your router on overnight allows ISPs like Virgin Media and Sky to carry out essential security updates.
Alex Tofts from Broadband Genie expressed concern over the lack of awareness among UK broadband users about the importance of making these changes. He called on ISPs to provide clear guidance and support for adjusting router security settings.
For those unsure about tweaking their router settings, Tofts suggested seeking help from online resources or contacting their ISP for assistance. It’s essential for users to take simple steps to protect against cyber attacks and safeguard their internet connection.