Customers urged to check routers after popular broadband firm discovers potential security flaw

A leading provider of Wi-Fi routers has discovered a flaw in its devices that may put millions of broadband users at risk.

The firm, which makes some of the most popular internet devices in the world, has urged all users of its products to check their Wi-Fi routers without delay to ensure the security of their online data.

The flaw could potentially allow hackers to access sensitive information such as passwords, financial data, and other personal information transmitted over the internet.

6G Internet DOES NOT use any of the routers made by the firm. Instead, all our customers receive a Wi-Fi 6 router which guarantees faster speeds, reliable connections, and, most importantly, increased security and online protection.

Wi-Fi 6 technology supports the newest security protocol, Wi-Fi Protected Access 3 (WPA3), which analysts say is the most comprehensive router safety protocol on the market.

Although our Wi-Fi 6 router includes advanced security and encryption features to protect your data, customers should always take the necessary precautions to keep themselves and their families safe when connecting devices to the internet.

They include regularly changing passwords, keeping software up-to-date, and not clicking on suspicious emails, links, or websites.

Customers should also keep their routers on overnight. Like many other internet service providers, this is when we send essential updates to the router.

Unplugging them before you go to bed to reduce electricity bills means your router misses out on the updates. Over time, this could degrade your download speeds and compromise the router’s security features.

Learn more about the benefits of 6G Internet’s Wi-Fi 6 router technology.

6G Internet is driving digital inclusion across the UK

Digital exclusion is a significant issue in the UK, with many individuals and communities lacking access to the internet and broadband technology they need in today’s increasingly digital world.

This can have serious consequences for their ability to participate in the digital economy, access online services, and stay connected with others.

Digital exclusion in the UK

Many factors contribute to digital exclusion in the UK, including economic hardship, lack of education, and geographical isolation.

For example, individuals living in low-income households are more likely to lack access to the internet and technology, as they may not be able to afford the necessary equipment and services.

Similarly, individuals who lack basic digital skills or do not have access to digital literacy training may find it challenging to navigate the online world.

Geographical isolation is another factor, as some towns and suburbs don’t have high-speed internet infrastructure.

The elderly and disabled people are also at risk of digital exclusion. They can often struggle using digital devices and may require additional support to access the internet.

What is the UK government doing about digital exclusion?

The UK government has taken steps to address digital exclusion, such as providing funding for digital literacy training and expanding access to high-speed internet in rural areas.

6G Internet and digital inclusion

Independent broadband providers like 6G Internet are helping with digital inclusion in the UK by providing more market competition and alternative internet access options.

We’re offering more affordable prices and better services to consumers, particularly in areas that may have been previously underserved by larger, mainstream providers.

We’re supporting digital inclusion in other ways, too. At 6G Internet, we give away 20% of our network to local charities, schools, and families experiencing economic hardship.

We call it the “Internet for everyone” campaign.

“In an increasingly digital world, it’s absolutely vital for everybody to be able to take advantage of the many benefits offered by the internet. Unfortunately, there are still significant barriers to some people getting online at home,” says Tara Murray, the 6G Internet for everyone coordinator.

“We want to help change this; this is why we’re working with local organisations to tackle the digital divide by giving free broadband connections to those who otherwise wouldn’t have access.”

So wherever we build, local residents will always have an internet connection they can use.

Digital exclusion is a significant issue in the UK that affects many individuals and communities. It is essential that steps are taken to address this issue. But by working together, we can ensure that everyone in the UK has the opportunity to participate in the digital economy and stay connected with the world.

Why AltNets like 6G Internet are better than big-name providers

Fed up with expensive broadband packages? Sick of seeing bills go up and up? Are you searching for a real alternative to the big-name broadband providers who never seem to value you as a customer?

If the answers are yes – and they probably are – then it’s time you thought about signing up with an alternative internet provider (Altnet) like 6G Internet.

AltNets are independent broadband companies delivering superfast speeds at great prices. Here’s a look at some of the best reasons why you should think about switching to one.

We’re just as fast

Alternative doesn’t mean inferior. It certainly doesn’t mean slower.

Here at 6G Internet, we deliver fibre-speed broadband through the air directly to our customers’ homes. Our packages are as fast as those offered by mainstream providers.

We deliver enough guaranteed broadband speeds for home-working, studying, streaming and gaming on multiple devices.

Better customer service

Around 1 in 5 broadband customers are unhappy with the level of service and technical support they receive from the big four broadband providers. Long call waiting times, the inability to speak to a ‘real’ person, degraded service, and billing issues were among the most popular complaints.

We take a different approach to service at 6G Internet. As a smaller, independent provider, every customer matters to us. So we treat our customers how they should be treated – like people, not numbers.

Our locally based call centre means there will always be an actual person waiting to answer your call. No bots. No automated ‘help’ menus.

Loyalty doesn’t always pay

When it comes to sticking with a mainstream broadband provider, loyalty DOES NOT pay. In fact, the longer you stay with a big-name broadband company, the more you’ll end up paying every month.

A report from the consumer group Which? found that Virgin Media broadband subscribers who stay for three years or longer end up paying 52% more than new customers. Sky’s customers face a 42% penalty for their ‘loyalty.’

Plus, most of them include a sneaky contract clause saying they can raise your bill mid-contract. If you decide to leave, you’ll have to pay an expensive exit fee.

It doesn’t seem fair, does it? That’s why we don’t do mid-contract price rises at 6G Internet.

We build better networks and better communities

AltNets are helping build better communities. Connecting towns and rural areas to high-speed broadband creates more economic opportunities and better life outcomes for residents.

At 6G Internet, we want everyone to benefit from fast and reliable internet connections, even if they can’t afford one.

And that’s what our Internet for everyone campaign is all about. We give away 20% of our network coverage in every town or city we build in. The free connections go to local schools, charities and any organisation that needs them.

Our free internet helps charities provide digital skills training to older people and care residents. It also means families experiencing economic hardship can stay connected to vital online services.

It’s time for something better and AltNets are becoming the common-sense choice for consumers. Visit 6Ginternet.com to see how you can become a part of the Altnet revolution.

Money Saving Expert issues urgent warning to anyone with a broadband contract

Consumer champion Martin Lewis has warned broadband customers to brace themselves for further price hikes in 2023.

The Money Saving Expert founder shared his concerns earlier this week, linking the incoming price hikes to higher-than-expected inflation figures.

“We’re going to get the December inflation figures soon,” said Lewis on his ITV, “The Martin Lewis Money Show.” “That’s normally what broadband costs are increased on. And they do it above inflation – so I’m expecting at least 15% rises in broadband prices to be announced by many of the big providers in the coming weeks.”

BT, EE, Plusnet, Shell, TalkTalk, Three and Vodafone are expected to introduce the biggest hikes, with the average monthly tariff going up by more than 15%. That could add over a hundred pounds a year onto some customers’ household bills.

Lewis shared some advice for customers worried about the increased cost of internet, which is something everyone now needs access to.

“If you’re one of those many millions out of contract, ring up your provider and say you want a cheaper deal and if they can’t do it, well, maybe you want to leave and find a cheaper deal.”

You can find those cheaper deals at 6G Internet. Our deals start from just £18.99 p/m. All packages include free installation, guaranteed speeds and locally based customer support.

6G Internet connections are air-fibre, so customers don’t pay for phone or line rental.

And here’s the best part. 6G Internet has promised never to raise its price mid-contract. When you become a 6G Internet customer, you never pay more than you signed up for.

Check available broadband offers in your area.

Millions of homeowners and tenants will get better access to faster broadband

Nearly all new homes built in England will have a gigabit-ready broadband connection installed during the construction phase.

UK Ministers added new measures to the Building Regulations 2010 Act, ensuring that future homes built in England will be fitted with connections capable of delivering gigabit broadband; gigabit broadband is the fastest internet speed on the market.

Ministers estimate that the new law will help connect more than 9 million households to high-speed and reliable internet over the next few years. Long-term, it means that gigabit broadband will be standard in every home in England.

And there’s more good news.

The Government announced another new law that will make installing faster internet connections in blocks of flats and high-rise apartment buildings easier.

The Telecommunications Infrastructure (Leasehold Property) Act (TILPA) gives broadband providers increased powers to gain access and install equipment when tenants request a faster broadband connection. Over 2000 residential buildings per year will be connected as a result.

“Nothing should stop people from seizing the benefits of better broadband, whether it is an unresponsive landlord or a property developer’s failure to act,” said Digital Infrastructure Minister Julia Lopez.

“Thanks to our new laws, millions of renters will no longer be prevented from getting a broadband upgrade due to the silence of their landlord. Those moving into newly built homes can be confident they’ll have access to the fastest speeds available from the day they move in.”

Gigabit broadband connections are available in over 70% of the UK.

They deliver lightning-fast download speeds. With a gigabit connection, customers enjoy a super smooth browsing experience.

It has enough bandwidth to support streaming and gaming on multiple devices, at the same time, with no slowdowns in speed. It’s broadband that keeps everybody happy.

And it’s ideal for homeworkers and remote learners who need a fast and reliable connection every time they log on.

How 6G Internet is giving Blackpool’s economy a welcome boost

Building new digital infrastructure in Blackpool is crucial to re-igniting the town’s economy, according to a recent study by GOV.UK.

The Blackpool Connectivity and Tourism Case Study, published at the end of 2022, conducted interviews with representatives of the Blackpool Council, local business owners, residents and tourists.

The vast majority of participants said faster and more stable internet connections would help attract new businesses and give the town’s declining tourism sector a welcome boost.

Affordable and accessible broadband would also help residents access essential services, as well as new employment and educational opportunities.

Why Blackpool needs better broadband

Blackpool remains one of the UK’s most deprived towns. Eight of the top 10 most deprived communities are in Blackpool and almost 50% of local households are below the poverty line.

“Blackpool is one of the UK’s ‘left behind’ areas,” writes one of the study’s authors. “Low wages, low employment rates, high levels of benefit claimants, poor health and high exclusion rates from school, mean that child poverty is unacceptably prevalent in the town.”

“Together, this has created poor economic conditions that are further exacerbated by a high proportion of residents with long-term debilitating illnesses and some of the poorest mental and physical health outcomes in the country.”

Improving the town’s digital infrastructure would be transformative, not just for the next few years but for generations ahead in Blackpool.

“Too many homes and businesses in Blackpool do not have access to the internet they need or deserve,” states the report. “If we are to tackle deprivation and unlock Blackpool’s economic potential in a meaningful way, then we need to provide the town and its residents with quality, 21st-century broadband at a reasonable price.”

6G Internet: Bringing better broadband to Blackpool

Blackpool needs better broadband and 6G Internet is delivering it right now.

6G Internet’s first connections went live in Blackpool a few months ago.

Thanks to our new network, residents can get enough broadband to support browsing, streaming, gaming and home working on multiple devices for less than £20p/m.

Every connection includes free installation, a no-price-rise promise and, because we deliver air fibre broadband, customers don’t have to pay extra for a landline connection they never use.

Our Internet for everyone campaign also donates 20% of all network coverage to schools, charities and local organisations in need and it’s providing tablets and other digital devices to families experiencing economic hardship.

“Blackpool now has access to broadband that’s as fast and cheap as anywhere else in the UK,” said a 6G Internet spokesperson. “It’s a true game-changer. Residents and businesses can now take full advantage of 21st-century technology and services. If anywhere deserved this digital upgrade, then it was Blackpool. We’re excited to see the impact the new network will have.”

New report highlights the best way to save money on broadband bills in 2023

Switching to a provider with a no-price promise is one of the best ways to avoid higher broadband bills during 2023, according to a leading consumer watchdog.

In its annual report on how to save money on broadband bills, Which? advises consumers to stay away from new deals with mainstream broadband firms, as they are far more likely to raise prices this year.

“When we looked at the average amounts affected customers could pay, we found that this year’s price increase would add as much as £55 to the average customer’s annual broadband bill,” writes Which? “Switching away or picking a provider with a fixed price will mean you get to swerve that extra cost.”

Which? looked at several more ways customers can reduce their broadband bills this year.

They include ditching the landline, which could save up to £20 a month and taking advantage of any refer-a-friend offers, which may equal an annual saving of £50 or more.

Which? also told consumers to look for special introductory and New Year deals.

“Given that many household budgets are already being squeezed, it’s become even more important to ensure that consumers get the most out of any broadband deal,” reads the Which? report. “Reducing the cost of your connection doesn’t have to be tricky: there are simple actions anyone can take to ensure they’re not paying over the odds.”

6G Internet provides everything customers need to keep bills affordable during the next 12 months. We never raise bills mid-contract, have loads of great offers and our customers are not forced to pay for a landline or line rental.

Check the best broadband offers in your area right now.

Why 6G Internet’s Mesh system is better than Wi-Fi boosters

Slow internet speeds, dropped Wi-Fi signals, or limited coverage are all symptoms of a weak internet signal. And we all hate having bad internet. Thankfully, there are several things you can do to improve your connection and widen your Wi-Fi coverage area.

Here’s a quick guide to getting the most out of your home internet connection.

Get a Wi-Fi booster

Wi-Fi boosters are one of the best and easiest ways to extend your network coverage.

Wi-Fi boosters expand your internet coverage area by boosting or amplifying the wireless signal. They take an existing signal from a wireless router or access point and re-broadcast it to create a second network.

There are several different types of Wi-Fi boosters. But the most common and effective boosters are the wall plug booster and the desktop design booster.

Plug boosters plug into an electrical wall socket, creating a new network in that room. They do a good job of improving the signal in one particular room or area of the home with poor Wi-Fi coverage.

Desktop boosters sit on a desk, table, or shelf and use external antennas to send a stronger Wi-Fi signal to multiple rooms.

How far does a booster extend the Wi-Fi range?

Most standard routers have a range of around 150-300 feet. Devices outside that range will experience connectivity issues. A Wi-Fi booster can increase that range by up to 2,000 feet, giving you much greater internet coverage.

Are Wi-Fi boosters safe?

Wi-Fi boosters use the same level of security as all Wi-Fi routers. Your information and data should always be safe when transmitted across a booster system.

Do I get more internet with a booster?

No. Boosters can speed up your internal Wi-Fi connection, but they won’t improve your external connection.

If you pay for 100Mbps per month, you’ll only ever receive a maximum of 100Mbps, no matter how many boosters you put around the house. Boosters simply maximise your bandwidth potential. They help ensure you get all the internet you pay for, but no more.

What is a mesh Wi-Fi router?

A mesh Wi-Fi router, or mesh system, joins multiple Wi-Fi access points together to create and share a single, seamless Wi-Fi network. It provides total coverage to even the largest homes and buildings.

Should I get a Wi-Fi mesh system?

If the Wi-Fi router or boosters you use in your small apartment don’t provide the full wireless connectivity you want, then a mesh Wi-Fi router system is the perfect solution.

They’re ideal if you have a large home or live in a property with an unusual layout that rises more than two stories.

The benefits of mesh routers

Mesh systems offer loads of great benefits and advantages, including:

A mesh system means no dead zones and the same fast and reliable speeds in every part of your home.

Mesh networks are easy to manage. They’re automated and can be controlled via smartphone apps. Mesh-router apps let users quickly scan their speeds, cut off Wi-Fi access to specific networks, create guest networks, test the quality between the various connection points, and connect to smart home devices.

Streamlined connections. Unlike a booster system, a mesh network doesn’t require constant reconnection as you move from room to room around the house. A single, seamless mesh network minimises lag, jitter, buffering, and dropouts.

What is better, a booster system or a mesh network?

Boosters are good. But mesh systems are excellent.

Mesh networks are the best choice for broadband customers looking for broader network coverage and better connections.

Mesh networks are faster, more secure, more reliable, and guarantee the same level of connection in every corner of every room. They also give you more control over your network and can help improve, for example, the streaming speeds to your TV.

Why can I get a mesh Wi-Fi system from?

6G Internet’s ‘Wi-Fi Wherever‘ broadband system supports 100% total Wi-Fi coverage in every room, every single time.

The Wi-Fi Wherever mesh system uses multiple hard-wired routers to create a single network. It identifies your device and location and assigns the strongest available signal.

With Wi-Fi Wherever Mesh, you can log on and use your broadband anywhere in the home without losing speed or picture resolution. This is Wi-Fi Wherever you are at home – guaranteed.

6G Internet’s Wi-Fi Wherever packages start from just £29.99 p/m.

Ofcom investigating broadband providers over ‘dishonest’ price rises

Ofcom wants to launch an industry-wide enforcement programme into how broadband providers advertise price rises written into contracts.

It calls for more transparency on mid-contract price rises to make consumers aware that their bills could go up in the future.

It comes after Ofcom analysed complaints suggesting customers who entered contracts between March 2021 and 2022 were not provided with clear enough information on the potential for price hikes.

Ofcom states that if providers want to include future price rise clauses in a contract, the terms must be detailed prominently and transparently at the point of sale.

They also state that customers who were not clearly notified should have the option to exit the contract penalty-free

Ofcom is gathering more information from providers and may launch separate investigations into individual firms.

Customers are struggling with the cost of living right now. Inflation has reached its highest rate in 40 years, leading to costly price increases for broadband customers.

Ofcom’s latest survey found that nearly 10 million UK households are struggling to afford broadband bills, with some doubling in price since April 2021.

The same study shows that just under 1 in 5 households (17%) are cutting back on food and clothing to make sure they can afford their monthly internet tariff.

Research from consumer watchdog Which? paints a similar picture.

“Our research has found that some customers who signed up for a broadband contract in early 2022 could see prices soar by up to £113 in 2023 due to mid-contract price rises,” says Rocio Concha, Which? Director of Policy and Advocacy. “It’s extremely concerning that these mid-contract price rises may not have been properly advertised to customers when they signed up, and we’re pleased to see Ofcom investigate the issue.”

“Given the cost of living pressures on consumers, Which? is calling on telecoms firms to allow customers to leave their contract without penalty if prices are hiked mid-contract – regardless of whether or not these increases can be said to be ‘transparent’ – and to carefully consider what level of mid-contract price hikes can be justified.”

Ethnic Reach wins the 6G Internet creative media award

Marketing agency Ethnic Reach scooped the 6G Internet creative media award at this year’s Tenth Asian Media Awards.

The London-based firm, which also took home the Media Agency of the Year trophy, picked up the award for its groundbreaking ‘#BeVisible: See the Ability, Not the Difference’ campaign, run alongside Vatika UK.

The campaign challenged discrimination in the beauty and personal care industry by promoting the stories of six women who identify as having a physical difference. Nearly one in five people in the UK self-identify as having a visible difference, yet beauty and personal care brands marketed for the Asian community barely reflect and represent their stories.

Ethnic Reach has been championing diversity and inclusion since 2006, through marketing strategy and brand profiling for public awareness, product and brand campaigns, events, and PR.

The 2022 Asian Media Awards took place at the Hilton Hotel, Deansgate, Manchester.

Some of the other categories and winners included:

Best TV Character

Balvinder Sopal

as Suki Panesar in Eastenders

TV Channel of the Year

Sony Entertainment Television

Best Radio Show

The Everyday Hustle

BBC Asian Network

Radio Presenter of the Year

Neev Spencer

Radio Station of the Year

Lyca Radio

Regional Journalist of the Year

Pritti Mistry

Journalist, BBC Yorkshire & Lincolnshire

Outstanding Young Journalist

Isaan Khan

Sports Reporter, Daily Mail

Sports Journalist of the Year

Nikesh Rughani

Commentator & Reporter, BBC Sport

Report of the Year

Helping Children in Crisis

Andrew Misra for ITV Border

Best Investigation

The Trojan Horse Affair

Hamza Syed & Brian Reed for The Serial & New York Times

Manchester Metropolitan University Journalist of the Year

Rohit Kachroo

Global Security Editor, ITN ITV News

Best Video Channel

Dr Karan Rajan

Best Newcomer

Ambika Mod

The Sophiya Haque Services to Television & Film Award

Kulvinder Ghir

Outstanding Contribution to Media Award

Lisa Aziz

Media Personality of the Year

Nihal Arthanayake

“This year’s Asian Media Awards event was the best yet,” says Tara Murray, from 6G Internet. “There was so much talent and achievement on display. We were proud to be a part of it and even prouder to see Ethnic Reach named a worthy winner of the award we sponsored.”