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What to do if…
your router shows many unknown devices connected to your network

Short answer

Secure the router first: briefly cut the internet if you can, then change the router admin password and Wi-Fi password, disable WPS/UPnP/remote management, and update firmware.

Do not do these things

Don’t assume the device names are trustworthy (many will appear as “unknown” or “generic”).
Don’t rely on blocking one device at a time as your main fix (it doesn’t address how access happened).
Don’t do sensitive logins (banking, email, password changes) on this Wi-Fi until you’ve secured it—use cellular data instead.
Don’t factory-reset in a rush: try the key security steps first. If you can’t regain control of settings or things look tampered with, do a controlled reset later.
Don’t post router screenshots or device lists publicly.

What to do now

Move your own activity to a safer connection for the next few minutes.
Use cellular data on your phone (or a trusted wired connection) while you secure the router.
Buy time: briefly disconnect the router from the internet.
If it’s easy: unplug the WAN/internet cable (or power for a minute if you can’t). This can stop active access while you change settings.
Change the router’s admin/login password (first).
In your router settings/app, change the admin password to something long and unique.
Change the Wi-Fi password and reconnect only your devices.
Set a strong Wi-Fi password. This forces everything to reauthenticate and usually knocks off unauthorized devices.
Use WPA3 or WPA2 encryption, and turn off WPS.
In wireless/security settings:
- Select WPA3-Personal if available (or WPA2-Personal).
- Disable WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup).
Turn off remote management/administration unless you truly need it.
Disable “Remote Management”, “Remote Admin”, “Administration over WAN”, or similar.
Turn off UPnP (unless you know you need it).
If you see “UPnP” (Universal Plug and Play), turn it off. If something important breaks (some games/streaming/voice services), you can turn it back on later after things are stable.
Update router firmware (or enable automatic updates).
Check for updates and apply them. Enable auto-updates if available.
Check whether “unknown” devices might be your own gear.
Common culprits: smart TVs, streaming sticks, printers, speakers, game consoles, smart home hubs, cameras, smart plugs. If you can’t confidently identify a device, keep it locked out by keeping the new Wi-Fi password private.
If unknown devices keep returning, do a controlled factory reset and secure setup.
Factory reset the router, then immediately set:

new admin password
WPA3/WPA2
WPS off
UPnP off unless needed
remote management off
firmware updated
If your ISP provided the router, contact them for secure reset/setup guidance or a replacement if the device is outdated.

If you suspect fraud or identity theft, document basics and report through official channels.

If money was taken: contact your bank/card issuer first.
For cyber-enabled crime or online fraud/scams: file a report with the FBI’s IC3.
If someone is using your personal information (identity theft): report at IdentityTheft.gov for a guided recovery plan.
Keep a simple note of dates/times, affected accounts, and any alerts/messages.

What can wait

You don’t need to figure out who the devices belong to right now.
You don’t need to hide your network name or buy a new router immediately.
You can postpone “tidying” tasks (renaming devices, guest networks, organizing smart home settings) until after the network is locked down.

Important reassurance

Seeing a long list of “unknown” devices is common and doesn’t automatically mean someone is targeting you—routers often label devices poorly. The steps above (new admin password, new Wi-Fi password, WPA2/WPA3, WPS/UPnP off, updates) are a strong first response.

Scope note

This is first-steps guidance to stop further access and reduce harm. If you see repeated re-entry after a reset, or any account takeovers or financial loss, you may need ISP support and broader account security steps.

Important note

This is general information, not professional, legal, or law-enforcement advice. If you believe you are in immediate danger, call local emergency services.

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What to do if…your router shows many unknown devices connected to your network