You may be unaware of this: your IP address is just like your home address but for your digital devices.
An IP basically tells websites and online services where to send data. But what could happen if someone steals your IP?
Could they impersonate you or steal your personal information? Unfortunately and not shockingly, the answer is yes.
The good news is that you can protect your IP and prevent any undesired event from happening by using some simple tools. Let’s get to it!
Why Would Someone Want Your IP Address?
Before we dive into how to stop someone from stealing your IP address, let’s understand why IPs are important and valuable. By stealing your IP Address, a hacker could:
- Track your location and, by deduction, knowing your physical whereabouts.
- They could conduct a Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attack to slow down or crash your internet connection.
- Impersonate you online to commit fraud or illegal activities.
- Gain unauthorized access to your home network.
- Monitor your online activities and browsing habits.
How to Know If Someone Is Stealing Your IP Address
Some major red flags you should be aware of are as follows.
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Pay Attention to Your Internet Speed
If your internet suddenly becomes slow without any obvious reason, it could be a sign that someone else is using your IP.
Don’t panic right away, internet connections can get slow for many reasons, but if this persists you should track the source of trouble.
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Be Careful of Strange Devices on Your Network
Create the habit of checking the list of connected devices on your router at least once in a while. If you see unknown users, it could mean someone is piggybacking on your internet connection.
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Weird Location-Based Ads Are a Warning Sign
If you are suddenly getting ads targeted at a different city or country it could indicate that your IP address has been compromised. Once or twice it’s okay but if this happens more times, you should definitely get your hands on the issue.
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Trouble Accessing Certain Websites
If websites are suddenly blocking or restricting your access, someone may have been using your IP for malicious activities, causing it to get blacklisted.
7 Steps to Take Care of Your IP Address
Thankfully, you can do simple things to protect your IP address that won’t cost hardly a lot of money and will stop cyber criminals from corrupting your IP.
1. Use a Virtual Private Network (VPN)
One of the best ways to protect your IP address is by using a VPN (virtual private network). A VPN hides your real IP address by routing your internet connection through a secure server, making it nearly impossible for hackers to track you.
2. Make Your Home Network Hack-Proof
Make sure your Wi-Fi network is locked down with these steps:
- Use a strong, unique password for your Wi-Fi.
- Enable WPA3 encryption (or at least WPA2) for added security.
- Change your router’s default username and password.
- Regularly check for and install firmware updates.
3. Think Before You Click
Phishing emails or malicious websites are one of the most common strategies for hackers. They would usually try to trick you into revealing your IP address by making you click on links.
This is easy to avoid; just be cautious and only click on trusted links.
4. Protect Your Digital Footprint with a Proxy
A proxy server works similarly to a VPN by masking your real IP address. This is, of course, optional, but it could add another barrier to protection.
5. Change Your IP Address Regularly
If you ever suspect your IP has been compromised, you can always request a new one from your ISP. You can also restart your modem as many times as you want to see if you get assigned a new IP address automatically.
6. Only Share Your Location When Absolutely Necessary
Too many apps and websites track your location using your IP. You should consider turning off location sharing on devices and browsers unless necessary.
Some apps that have nothing to do with physical location ask for this permission, and it is very easy to remove their access to your IP. Simply check your device app and permission section, every digital device has these options nowadays.
Have you Ever Tried Educating Yourself on Cybersecurity?
The more you know, the safer you’ll be. You don’t need to be a professional in cybersecurity or a computer technician.
By staying informed about common online threats and how to avoid them, you’re taking a big step toward keeping yourself safe online. Don’t wait and, to learn more about your IP address now.
You Own Your Online Safety
Believe it or not, your IP address is a valuable piece of your online identity. Protecting it should be a priority and a responsibility for everyone.
The only challenge is that being informed and taking action takes some time. You can always rely on professional help if you are not interested in learning about the digital world, but ignoring your cybersecurity is probably the worst idea.
The internet should be a safe place for everyone, but just like in the real world, some precautions must be taken. With the right information, you will in no time, own your online safety like a pro.