High riskTech Support & Computer Scams

Router Hacked Scam

In this scam, callers or pop-ups claim your router or Wi-Fi has been hacked and your internet provider must fix it, seeking remote access, router logins, or payment to 'secure' your network.

Quick verdict

Risk level
High risk
Scam type
ISP impersonation (tech support)
Main red flag
An unexpected claim your router or Wi-Fi is hacked and needs remote access to fix.
What to do first
Hang up; contact your provider on the number from your bill or official site.

What this scam usually looks like

In this scam, callers or pop-ups claim your router or Wi-Fi has been hacked and your internet provider must fix it, seeking remote access, router logins, or payment to 'secure' your network.

Example message pattern

Example pattern — not a real report
Example pattern: 'This is your internet provider. Hackers have breached your router. Allow us remote access now to secure your connection.'

This is a fictional, anonymised example used to illustrate the pattern. It is not a verified real message, and any names are used only to show how the scam typically reads.

Red flags to watch for

  • An unsolicited claim your router or Wi-Fi is hacked
  • A request for remote access to your network or device
  • Demands for your router login or admin password
  • Pressure to act before 'hackers' do damage
  • A caller you cannot verify as your provider

What to do

  • Hang up and call your provider on a number from your bill
  • Never grant remote access on an unsolicited call
  • Change your router admin password yourself if worried
  • Report the call and block the number

If you already clicked or replied

  • Disconnect any remote-access session and uninstall the software
  • Change your router admin and Wi-Fi passwords
  • Update the router firmware and review connected devices
  • Contact your provider and your bank if you paid

What not to do

  • Do not grant remote access to your network
  • Do not share your router login or admin password
  • Do not pay to 'secure' your connection on a cold call

Similar scams

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In this scam, a caller or pop-up convinces you to install remote-access software so 'support' can fix an issue, then uses the control to view your screen, steal data, and move money.
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Microsoft Support Call Scam

In this scam, a caller claims to be from Microsoft or Windows support about detected errors, expired licences, or security issues, pressuring you to install remote-access software or pay to 'fix' your PC.
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Fake Antivirus Scareware Scam

In this scam, fake antivirus warnings or bogus renewal emails claim your device is infected or your subscription is charging you, pushing you to install malware, pay, or call a fake support line.

Frequently asked questions

Would my ISP call about a hacked router?
Providers do not cold-call demanding remote access or your router password. Treat such calls as scams and contact your provider on an official number.
How do I actually secure my router?
Change the admin and Wi-Fi passwords yourself, update the firmware, and review connected devices. You never need to grant a caller remote access.
I let them access my network. What now?
Disconnect the session, uninstall the software, change your router and Wi-Fi passwords, update firmware, and contact your provider and bank if you paid.
Why do they want router access?
To install changes, steal logins, or set up further fraud. No genuine support fix requires you to hand control of your network to a cold caller.

Last reviewed: June 2026

Disclaimer: This page provides educational information only to help you recognise common scam patterns. It is not legal, financial, cybersecurity, or law enforcement advice, and it does not confirm whether any specific message, company, or person is genuine or fraudulent. When in doubt, contact the official organisation directly and report concerns to your local authorities.