TL;DR: Wardriving is the act of searching for unsecured WiFi networks, often by driving around with a laptop or phone, to gain unauthorized access to them. Use WPA3 (or at minimum WPA2) encryption on your home WiFi, set a strong unique password, and regularly check your router's connected-devices list for anything unfamiliar.
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Wardriving is the act of searching for unsecured WiFi networks, often by driving around with a laptop or phone, to gain unauthorized access to them.
How Wardriving Works
An attacker scans for open or weakly secured WiFi networks in range, then connects to intercept traffic, access connected devices, or use the network for further attacks — all without the network owner's knowledge.
Warning Signs to Watch For
Unusually slow home internet, unfamiliar devices showing up in your router's connected-devices list, and unexpected changes to your router's settings.
How to Protect Yourself
Use WPA3 (or at minimum WPA2) encryption on your home WiFi, set a strong unique password, and regularly check your router's connected-devices list for anything unfamiliar.
If this looks similar to something else you've seen, it's worth reading What Is Warranty Renewal Scams? How It Works and How to Protect Yourself.
This pattern shows up elsewhere too — see What Is Whaling Attacks? How It Works and How to Protect Yourself.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Wardriving?
Wardriving is the act of searching for unsecured WiFi networks, often by driving around with a laptop or phone, to gain unauthorized access to them.
How does Wardriving typically work?
An attacker scans for open or weakly secured WiFi networks in range, then connects to intercept traffic, access connected devices, or use the network for further attacks — all without the network owner's knowledge.
What are the warning signs of Wardriving?
Unusually slow home internet, unfamiliar devices showing up in your router's connected-devices list, and unexpected changes to your router's settings.
How can I protect myself from Wardriving?
Use WPA3 (or at minimum WPA2) encryption on your home WiFi, set a strong unique password, and regularly check your router's connected-devices list for anything unfamiliar.
What should I do if I think I’ve encountered Wardriving?
Stop responding immediately, do not click any links or share information, and report it to the appropriate authority. If money or personal information was already shared, act quickly to secure your accounts and report the incident.