WiFi

Your Wi-Fi Password Might Already Be Public:

Most small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) think cyber criminals use advanced tools to “hack” into systems. The reality? They often don’t need to. They simply walk through the front door you forgot to lock.

The Problem with Default Passwords

Until recently, most Wi-Fi routers shipped with default usernames and passwords — things like admin / password or 1234. Type your router’s make and model into Google, and you’ll see hundreds of these default logins listed.

That means a hacker doesn’t even need to guess. They just look it up.

We’ve seen businesses spend thousands on cybersecurity software, yet the router in the cupboard was still using its factory login. In one case, a contractor managed to connect to a client’s Wi-Fi from the car park because it wasn’t properly secured. He had access for weeks before anyone noticed.

If that sounds familiar, your business is leaving the front door wide open.

The Law Has Changed — But You’re Still at Risk

In the UK, the Product Security and Telecommunications Infrastructure Act (PSTI) came into force on 29 April 2024. This law requires manufacturers of smart devices — including routers — to ship them with unique, non-guessable passwords, not the old “admin / password” defaults.

It’s a good step forward, but there are catches:

The law only applies to new devices. Older routers are still vulnerable.
Even with unique factory passwords, many businesses never change them.
Outdated firmware and unpatched routers remain one of the easiest ways in for attackers.

In short, the PSTI Act helps — but it won’t protect your business unless you take action.

Why This Matters for Your Business

Your router isn’t just “the box that gives you Wi-Fi.” It’s the gateway between your business and the outside world. If it’s not secured:

Hackers can piggyback on your Wi-Fi and launch attacks under your company’s name.
Sensitive data (client records, finances, internal emails) could be intercepted.
Your compliance (Cyber Essentials, GDPR, ISO) could be instantly at risk.

The 10-Minute Fix That Closes the Gap

Securing your Wi-Fi doesn’t have to be complicated. Here’s a quick checklist:

Log into your router — The login address is printed on the back of the device.
Change the admin username and password — Never leave it on defaults.
Update the firmware — Just like your phone, routers need patches to close security holes.
Check your Wi-Fi password — Make it strong, not “BusinessName2024.”
Disable WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup) — It’s a known weak spot that makes brute-force attacks easier.

Do these five steps and you’ve removed one of the biggest risks in small business cybersecurity — in less than 10 minutes.

The PSTI Act is progress, but real cybersecurity isn’t about waiting for manufacturers or regulators. It’s about locking your own front door before someone tries the handle.

At Munio, we help UK SMBs close the gaps that hackers rely on — the simple mistakes that make the difference between a close call and a business-crippling breach.

Want to know how exposed your business really is?

Take our Cyber Clarity Quiz — in just 2 minutes, you’ll see the risks that most IT providers miss.

Don’t spend thousands on cyber tools if your front door is still wide open.

Blog by Munio IT