Yesterday, I was playing an online game when another player started exploiting the game and threatening me. Before leaving, they said, "just say goodbye." Today, when I got home, my phone and PC both failed to connect to any of my saved Wi‑Fi networks. I only spoke with this person—I didn't download files, run software, or visit unusual websites. I'm worried that I might have been hacked. I already tried unplugging and reconnecting the router, but the POWER and WEB lights are red instead of green. What should I check, and what steps should I take to secure my accounts and network?
3 Answers
On each device, forget the saved Wi‑Fi network and connect again by entering the password manually. Also test whether another device can see the network at all. If the Wi‑Fi network has disappeared or the router’s status lights remain abnormal, the problem is likely the router or service line rather than your phone or PC. Don’t reset the router to factory settings unless you know the setup information or your provider tells you to.
This is probably a coincidence or an issue with the router or internet service rather than the game player hacking your devices. Someone would generally want your devices online if they were trying to steal logins or other information. Since both devices stopped connecting at the same time, check the router first. Restart it properly by unplugging the power cable, waiting about 30 seconds, plugging it back in, and giving it several minutes to reconnect. Red POWER and WEB lights suggest the router or its internet connection isn’t functioning normally, so you may need to contact your internet provider if they stay red.
I tried unplugging and reconnecting it, but the lights are still red. I’ll check with my internet provider next.
Even though there’s no sign this person accessed your devices, it’s a good time to review your security. Use different, strong passwords for every account, enable app-based two-factor authentication where possible, and check for unexpected login alerts or password-reset emails. If the player threatened you, save screenshots or usernames and report the behavior through the game’s safety tools, but don’t click links or download anything they send.
I only interacted with the player and didn’t download anything or visit suspicious sites, so I’ll focus on checking the router and connection.