Secure Your Wi-Fi: How AVG Antivirus WiFi Scan Tool Protects Your Router

Is your internet acting strangely? You might be one of many experiencing a compromised router. Cybercriminals are increasingly targeting home routers to spread malware, steal personal information, and even launch wider attacks. Recognizing the signs of router infection and taking proactive steps to secure your network is crucial. This is where an Avg Antivirus Wifi Scan Tool like AVG AntiVirus FREE’s Network Inspector becomes invaluable.

Fake antivirus messages, constant pop-up ads, or even seeing your personal files locked by ransomware can be alarming signs that something is wrong with your devices. But the root cause might be your router. Hackers can exploit vulnerabilities in your router to inject malware, redirect your internet traffic, and compromise your entire network. Let’s explore the telltale signs of a compromised router and how an avg antivirus wifi scan tool can help you secure your Wi-Fi.

Spotting the Signs of a Router Virus

Before you panic, it’s important to know what to look for. Here are common symptoms that indicate your router might be infected with malware:

Fake Antivirus Pop-Ups

One of the most deceptive tactics is scareware. You might encounter pop-up messages claiming your computer is infected with viruses and urging you to download antivirus software. These are often fake and designed to trick you into installing more malware or paying for useless software. Seeing an increase in these fake antivirus messages can be a sign of adware or scareware, potentially originating from a compromised router.

Ransomware Locking Your Data

Ransomware is a serious threat. If your files suddenly become inaccessible and you receive a ransom demand, it’s a clear indication of a ransomware attack. While ransomware can infect your computer directly, a compromised router can also be the entry point. Immediate action is needed, and a dedicated ransomware removal tool should be used.

Redirected Internet Searches

Are your internet searches taking you to unexpected websites? This is a classic symptom of DNS hijacking. Attackers reroute your internet traffic, sending you to malicious sites designed to steal your data or infect your devices further. If your searches are consistently redirecting you, your router’s DNS settings may have been tampered with.

Unfamiliar Website Behavior

Pay close attention to websites you visit regularly. Do they look different? Is the URL missing “HTTPS”? Are you seeing login errors or strange behavior? These anomalies can signal DNS hijacking. Additionally, if your browser is using excessive CPU, causing your computer fan to run loudly, it could also be a sign of malicious activity.

Unexpected Software or Toolbars

Bloatware and unwanted software are often bundled with malware. If you notice new programs or toolbars installed without your permission, it’s a red flag. Check your installed programs and browser extensions for anything unfamiliar.

Using AVG Antivirus WiFi Scan Tool to Secure Your Router

Fortunately, protecting your router and Wi-Fi network is easier than you might think. An avg antivirus wifi scan tool like AVG AntiVirus FREE includes a Network Inspector feature specifically designed to scan your wireless network for vulnerabilities. Here’s how to use it:

Open AVG AntiVirus FREE: Launch the AVG AntiVirus FREE application on your computer.
Navigate to Network Inspector: In the main AVG interface, click on the Computer tile under the Basic Protection section. Then, select Network Inspector.
Initiate Scan: On the Network Inspector screen, click the Scan Network button to begin scanning your Wi-Fi network.
Choose Network Type: Select whether you are scanning a Home or Public network to optimize the scan process.
Review Scan Results: AVG AntiVirus FREE will scan your network and display a list of connected devices, including your router, computers, and mobile devices. Click the arrow next to each device to see detailed information and identify any potential vulnerabilities. Once reviewed, click Done.

AVG AntiVirus FREE’s Network Inspector acts as your avg antivirus wifi scan tool, providing a proactive layer of security for your home network. It helps you identify weaknesses and potential entry points for cyberattacks, ensuring your router and connected devices are better protected.

Beyond the Network Inspector, AVG AntiVirus FREE offers comprehensive cybersecurity, including real-time malware detection and removal, protection against malicious links and email attachments, and much more. Trusted by millions worldwide, AVG provides robust security to keep you and your devices safe.

Install free AVG Mobile Security

Get it for Mac, PC, Android

Download AVG AntiVirus FREE

Get it for Android, iOS, Mac

Manually Checking Your Router’s DNS Settings

In addition to using an avg antivirus wifi scan tool, you can also manually check your router’s DNS settings for signs of compromise. Here’s how:

Access Router Settings: Open a web browser and log in to your router’s settings page. Refer to your router’s documentation for specific instructions on how to access these settings.
Locate DNS Settings: Find the DNS settings within your router’s menu. This is usually located in sections labeled “Internet” or “Network”. Router interfaces vary, so consult your manual if needed.
Verify DNS Configuration: An “automatic” DNS configuration (DHCP) is generally a good sign, indicating your router is obtaining DNS information from your Internet Service Provider (ISP). This is the desired setting. If you have previously configured manual DNS settings, ensure they are still correct.
Check for Manual Adjustments: If you find that your DNS settings have been manually changed and you didn’t make those changes, it could be a sign of router malware or unauthorized access.

Removing Malware from an Infected Router

If you suspect your router is infected, here’s how to attempt malware removal. Keep in mind that effectiveness can vary depending on your router model and the type of malware.

Backup Your Data: Before any reset, back up important files on your computer to an external drive or cloud storage as a precaution.
Perform a Factory Reset: A factory reset reverts your router to its original factory settings, erasing all configurations and potentially removing malware. Typically, this involves pressing a recessed button on your router using a paperclip for a few seconds. Consult your router’s manual for specific instructions.
Update Router Password: After the reset, reconfigure your router settings, including your Wi-Fi network name and password. Critically, update your router’s login credentials (username and password) from the default to a strong, unique password. This prevents malware that relies on default logins from re-infecting your router.

Enhance Router Security with Antivirus Protection

Taking your router security to the next level involves using an avg antivirus wifi scan tool regularly and leveraging the proactive protection features of a comprehensive antivirus solution. AVG AntiVirus FREE continuously scans your network for vulnerabilities and alerts you to new devices joining your network, helping you identify unauthorized access.

Protect your entire network and all connected devices with AVG’s industry-leading cybersecurity. Download AVG AntiVirus FREE today and gain peace of mind knowing your Wi-Fi and router are secured.