Why you should be careful when buying a used router and this is what we advise you to do before using it
Buying used devices can be an interesting option to save money. You can find good deals online through applications such as eBay. Now, is it safe? The truth is that sometimes you may come across a device that is faulty or even contains malware. In this article, we will talk about whether buying a used router is dangerous. We will talk with you about what can happen and what you should take into account.
A router is an essential piece of internet browsing, and the connection that reaches other devices will pass through there, but what you should know is that if you buy a used device of this type and it is configured maliciously, it can pose a risk.
- The danger of using a used router
In general, we can say that it is not normal to encounter security issues when buying a used router. In the vast majority of cases, these are just devices that the sellers no longer need. For example, they may have changed carriers or bought a more powerful router.
However, there is always the risk of security issues. For example, they could have maliciously modified the router settings. They could have used DNS hijacking, which essentially redirects DNS to malicious addresses. For example, you could create your bank’s website and end up with a fake one, even if it’s a very good copy.
Additionally, another risk is having an old router with known vulnerabilities. If you buy it new, it will naturally come with updated firmware. They may be selling you a router that hasn’t been used for several years, and those vulnerabilities haven’t been patched, so that could be a big risk.
So, we can say in a way that there is a risk, even if it is small, when buying a used router. And it is important that you take the necessary measures if you are going to buy a device of this type so that your privacy and security are not compromised when browsing the Internet.
- Preparing the router
If you have purchased a used router, the first thing we recommend is to reset it to factory settings. This way, any configuration you have done before will be deleted. You will reduce the risk of them stealing information and compromising your security when browsing.
It is also a good idea to update your router drivers. It is possible that the router is old and has not been used for a long time, so it is possible that it has known defects. Make sure that you have the latest version installed. You can go to the manufacturer's official website and see which one is compatible, so you do not get confused.
Another tip is to use strong passwords and review your settings carefully. However, you should also do the latter with your router or any new device you buy. It’s essential to have good security and make sure that hackers don’t get into your wireless network without permission.
So, if you are going to buy a used router, you can take into account all of this that we have mentioned. This will help you avoid problems, as there may be security risks if they sell you a device that they have modified maliciously.