Piggybacking: Meaning, examples, and prevention

What is piggybacking in cybersecurity?

Wi-Fi piggybacking is a common type of piggybacking. However, as we mentioned earlier, the meaning of “piggybacking” is not limited to Wi-Fi networks. Piggybacking generally means gaining unauthorized access to any system or resource by taking advantage of someone else’s access or session.

How does piggybacking work?

How piggybacking works depends on the setting in which the attack takes place — physical or digital.

In physical settings, piggybacking occurs when an authorized individual intentionally allows an unauthorized person to enter a restricted area, such as holding open a secure door for them or granting them permission to use their credentials. Unlike tailgating, which involves sneaky, unapproved following, piggybacking depends on cooperation, either due to manipulation, deception, or compliance.

Piggybackers will often give a legitimate reason why they need access, such as claiming they forgot their credentials, are in a hurry, or are carrying heavy items, making it seem reasonable for the authorized person to grant them entry.

In digital contexts, piggybacking attacks often occur at the network layer, where an attacker intercepts network traffic or exploits unsecured connections to gain access to active sessions created by an authorized user. This type of social engineering includes taking over an unattended session left open by a user or hijacking their connection in real time, often by intercepting session cookies or tokens.

For example, if a user logs in to a secure platform and leaves their computer or account unlocked and unattended, an unauthorized person could use this opportunity to “piggyback” on their access without needing to authenticate themselves.

The typical steps of a piggybacking attack

Although the exact steps may vary depending on the context, most piggybacking attacks follow a general pattern:

1. 1.Finding a way in. The unauthorized user gets inside the physical premises or gains digital access to the target organization. They might blend in with employees to slip inside, borrow a keycard under false pretenses, or infiltrate the network by hijacking an active user session or exploiting an unsecured connection.
2. 2.Watching the target. The attacker observes how an authorized person verifies their identity to gain access to a system or secure area. They might spy on someone typing their password, watch them swipe a security card, or note the PIN they enter at a keypad.
3. 3.Stealing access information. Once the attacker has the information, they copy it for personal use. They could do this by directly watching the authorized person (shoulder surfing), installing keyloggers, using hidden cameras, or even obtaining credentials through phishing or other forms of social engineering.
4. 4.Breaking in. Using the stolen credentials, the attacker logs into a secure system, gains access to sensitive data, installs malware, or performs other damaging activities. In cases of physical piggybacking, the attacker might now be able to enter restricted areas without raising suspicion.
5. 5.Hiding their tracks. The attacker takes steps to erase their presence. They might delete activity logs, modify system settings, or cover up any visible signs of the breach to avoid detection.
6. 6.Ensuring future access. For longer-term attacks, the attacker may create hidden user accounts, install backdoors, or leave surveillance tools to keep access open for future use.

Examples of piggybacking

Piggybacking is very common in everyday life. Piggybacking examples include:

• Unauthorized use of an unprotected business Wi-Fi network. If a business doesn’t protect its Wi-Fi with a password, anyone nearby can connect to the network without permission. Open Wi-Fi access allows strangers to use the internet for free, but it also exposes the business to security risks.
• Exploitation of publicly available network passwords. A network might have a password, but if it’s posted where everyone can see it — like a sign in a coffee shop — a piggybacker can grab the password, leave, and still use the network from outside.
• Unprotected personal mobile hotspots and data misuse. If you turn your phone into a hotspot and don’t use a password, people around you can connect to it and use your data.
• Unauthorized access to home Wi-Fi networks through weak or easy-to-guess passwords. Many people change their Wi-Fi passwords to something easy to remember. A simple password also makes it easier for someone to guess it and connect to your network without asking.
• Physical access through deception. In secure buildings, an attacker might convince an employee to hold the door open or allow them inside. They may appear helpful, friendly, or in need of assistance. In this case, the attacker gets access because the employee lets them in.
• Search engine traffic piggybacking. A website might use popular brand names or keywords in its pages to show up in search results and grab clicks meant for someone else.
• Leveraging another brand’s branding or reputation. A new company might copy a well-known brand’s logo, website style, or tone of voice to look more trustworthy and get more customers.
• Cloud resource misuse. If no one revokes their access, a former employee may keep using the organization’s cloud services after they leave the company. Continuing to use these services without permission wastes resources, drives up costs, and creates security risks.

How to detect piggybacking on your Wi-Fi

Wi-Fi piggybacking is a very common form of piggybacking. If your network isn't secure, a neighbor, a passerby, or even someone sitting in a parked car could use your internet connection. Luckily, you can spot piggybacking on your Wi-Fi with a few simple steps.

1. 1.Check the list of devices connected to your router. If you see a phone, laptop, or smart device you don’t recognize connected to your router, someone may be using your Wi-Fi without your knowledge.
2. 2.Monitor sudden slowdowns in internet speed. If your internet suddenly gets slower and you haven’t added new devices or apps, someone else might be using your bandwidth.
3. 3.Set up alerts for new device connections. Some routers let you enable push notifications or emails when a new device joins the network.
4. 4.Change your Wi-Fi password and watch for reconnect attempts. If you change your password and see unknown devices trying to connect, someone was likely using your network before.

What to do if someone is stealing your Wi-Fi

If you’ve discovered that someone is using your Wi-Fi without permission, don’t panic. Acting quickly will help you protect your internet connection, personal data, and devices.

Disconnect unauthorized devices from your network

Log in to your router and manually remove any devices you don’t recognize. Some routers allow you to block or kick off unknown users.

Change your Wi-Fi password immediately

Pick a strong, unique password that’s hard to guess. This step will force all devices to reconnect and cut off anyone who shouldn’t be accessing your Wi-Fi.

Enable WPA3 encryption and disable WPS

Make sure your router uses WPA3 encryption — it’s the strongest option available. Also, turn off WPS (Wi-Fi protected setup) because it can give attackers an easy way into your network.

Rename your network (SSID)

Change your Wi-Fi name to a unique and unfamiliar network name. Renaming your network breaks the auto-connect feature on unauthorized devices and makes it harder for piggybackers to identify and reconnect to your Wi-Fi.

How to prevent piggybacking attacks

Follow these steps to protect your electronic systems and connections from unwanted intruders — whether they’re trying to sneak onto your Wi-Fi, software, or even into your building. Implementing multiple layers of security is key because no single measure can completely safeguard against piggybacking attacks.

Use strong passwords

Strong passwords are your first line of defense. Create strong passwords that are at least 10 characters long and include a mix of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols. Avoid using names, birthdays, or simple words. Don’t share your passwords or post them where others can see them.

To add an extra layer of security, enable multi-factor authentication (MFA) on all accounts that support it. MFA makes it harder for unauthorized users to gain access, even if they have your password.

Monitor connected devices

Check your Wi-Fi router or network dashboard regularly to see what devices are connected. If you spot a device you don’t recognize, remove it and block it from rejoining. Doing so can help you catch piggybackers early and stop them from using your resources.

Disable SSID broadcasting

Hiding your Wi-Fi network name, or an SSID, adds an extra layer of privacy. It won’t stop a determined attacker, but it can keep casual users from trying to connect. Once you hide the SSID, only people who know your network name can find and connect to it.

Upgrade to WPA3 encryption

If your router supports WPA3 encryption, use it to encrypt your internet connection. It’s the most secure option available and makes it harder for outsiders to intercept your data or gain access to your network.

Set up a guest network

Set up a guest Wi-Fi network and isolate it from your main network to prevent visitors from accessing your private devices or files. Use a strong, unique password and update it regularly to minimize risks if it's shared without consent.

Keep your software and firmware updated

Always update your router, firewall, antivirus, and other devices. Software updates fix bugs and patch security holes, while outdated software gives attackers more ways to slip in unnoticed. Keep your data safe by ensuring that your software and firmware are always up to date.

Control physical access

In offices or other secure buildings, don’t let unknown people follow you into restricted areas — even if they seem friendly. Always verify visitors and report suspicious activity. If someone asks to use your credentials or badge, say no and report it.