Yes, a neighbor can potentially spy on your internet activity if they manage the Wi-Fi network you are using, or if your own network is unsecure. They can see the websites (domains) you visit, and if they are tech-savvy, they might monitor traffic, though encrypted (HTTPS) sites hide specific page details.
Following are six signs that your neighbor is watching you.
Yes, others can potentially see your search history, depending on your security tools and internet activity. Some examples of parties that might be able to see your searches include: Your ISP (Internet Service Provider);
Symptoms of a hacked WiFi network include slower internet speeds, seeing unknown connected devices in your router's admin page or unexpected changes to your network settings. Access your router's admin page by typing its IP address into your browser, then check the list of connected devices.
Use a strong password
If you're curious whether a neighbor can mess with your Wi-Fi, the answer is yes. But only if you have an easy-to-guess password or no password at all. So, the best way to protect your Wi-Fi is to have a strong password to secure your internet connection.
Encrypt your network.
To encrypt your network, simply update your router settings to either WPA3 Personal or WPA2 Personal. WPA3 is the newer — and best — encryption available, but both will work to scramble your information.
Look for lists of connected websites and IP addresses. If you see these, you should also check for further data like MAC addresses (used to identify specific network devices) and/or the names of connected devices. Remember, there are legitimate reasons to monitor network activity.
If your neighbors have a Wi-Fi router on the same channel within range of your router or Wi-Fi gateway, it can cause interference.
Yes. An incognito browser only hides searches from the local device it is installed on. The WiFi owner has access to the admin panel from the WiFi router, meaning they can see the browsing information performed on their WiFi network. Additionally, your ISP can also see all traffic, regardless of the browser being used.
Unusual sounds or echoes during calls
If you're noticing weird clicking sounds or high-pitched hums on multiple calls across different locations and with different people, it could be a sign that someone is eavesdropping or tracking your calls.
Generally, someone cannot see your text messages when you connect to their Wi-Fi. However, threat actors can use other methods that don't rely on Wi-Fi to get your texts.
Your IP address: Network owners can see all devices connected to their WiFi network, including yours. They can also see your device's private IP address, which can be used to geolocate and potentially identify you.
If you notice your neighbor is spying on you, then you should try gathering evidence of their actions, then approach them directly either with a lawyer, your landlord, or the police. Do not at any point confront them aggressively or destroy their equipment.
Can someone spy on your phone without you knowing? Yes, if someone had physical access to your phone and installed monitoring software, they can now spy on your phone.
You may notice individuals loitering near your home, taking notes, or continually watching your property. This behavior could suggest that someone is monitoring your routines and looking for vulnerabilities.
You can tell someone is using your Wi-Fi by signing into your router and checking the network map. Some antivirus software also automatically scan your network regularly to make sure unknown devices aren't connected and can even display who's currently connected.
Most neighbors do not jam WiFi on purpose. Sometimes, their devices or routers cause interference. Placing your router away from shared walls can help reduce problems.
Yes, people can hijack your router and get access to your WiFi network.
How to Know If Someone Is Using Your WiFi
Use a VPN. A VPN (short for Virtual Private Network) encrypts all of the data going to and from your web browser and conceals your location and IP address. Installing a VPN browser extension can be an effective way to improve your anonymity online.
How to Permanently Block Unauthorized Devices
Regularly update your router firmware and install automatic updates, if possible. Change your default SSID (i.e., Wi-Fi name). Change the default Wi-Fi password. Ensure that your router uses WPA3 Personal encryption or WPA2 AES (sometimes seen as WPA2 PSK or WPA2).
You can check how many personal devices are connected to your Wi-Fi network in the Google Home app or the Google Wifi app.
How to Find Unauthorized Devices on Your Network