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You trust your home internet to help you stream, shop, work and stay connected. But according to a recent Public Service Announcement from the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3), cybercriminals are increasingly finding ways to misuse everyday home internet connections through apps and devices without the owner even knowing it. 

At Midco, we believe you can stay protected by staying informed. Here’s what this alert means for you and your devices – and the simple steps you can take to keep your home network safe. 

What is a residential proxy, in plain language? 

A residential proxy is a way for someone to route their internet activity through another person’s internet-connected device(s). When that happens, websites see the activity as coming from the homeowner’s address – not the criminal’s actual location. 

Cybercriminals use residential proxies to conceal their identities and locations. If your device or network is involved, it can look like you are responsible for activity you didn’t do. 

How does this happen? 

Most people don’t knowingly agree to let someone else use their internet connection. According to the FBI, residential proxies usually involve one of two situations: 

• You unknowingly agree to it, often buried in fine print 
• Your device is compromised, without your consent or awareness 

Here are the most common ways this can happen. 

Free apps and hidden permissions. 

Some illegitimate mobile apps include behind‑the‑scenes software that routes traffic through your device. The permission is often hidden in long or confusing terms and conditions. 

“Free” VPN services. 

Some no‑cost VPNs quietly enroll users’ devices into residential proxy networks. The details may be hard to find or difficult to understand. 

Compromised smart devices. 

Internet‑connected devices like streaming sticks, digital picture frames, smart TVs or routers can be infected with malicious software. In some cases, malware is installed before the device is even purchased. Purchase or lease equipment through a trusted vendor that can also protect your home internet using proactive, threat-blocking software.  

Malware from pirated or free content. 

Free games, pirated movies, unofficial streaming services or cracked software can carry malware that turns your device into part of a proxy network. 

“Passive income” apps. 

Some apps promise easy money for sharing your internet bandwidth. What isn’t always clear is that criminals may be using that connection to carry out cybercrime. 

Why are residential proxies risky for homeowners? 

When criminals route activity through a residential IP address, it helps them blend in and avoid detection. The FBI reports residential proxies are used for: 

• Phishing scams and identity theft 
• Malware distribution 
• Spam and fake account creation 
• Account takeovers, including banking and shopping accounts 
• Hiding the source of illegal online marketplaces 
• Bypassing purchase limits on high‑demand items like tickets or collectibles 

If criminal activity is tied to your IP address, it can cause major headaches – even though you didn’t do anything wrong.  

How to protect your home network. 

The good news: A few smart habits go a long way. The FBI recommends these steps to reduce your risk, and we fully agree. 

Purchase equipment and download apps only from trusted sources. 

Stick to official app stores and well‑known providers. Avoid sideloading apps on streaming devices or smart TVs. Purchasing “off-brand” steaming devices that promise access to free sports, TV shows and movies should be avoided, too. If it sounds too good to be true, it often is and may have pre-loaded malware. 

Think twice about free VPNs. 

Before downloading any VPN, read reviews and terms carefully. Free services may come with hidden costs. 

Keep everything updated. 

Regularly update your router, devices, apps and operating systems. Security updates fix known vulnerabilities criminals like to exploit. 

Watch for suspicious emails and links. 

Phishing emails are still one of the most common ways malware gets onto devices. When in doubt, don’t click. 

Pay attention to connected devices. 

Periodically review what’s connected to your home network, using your Midco Wi-Fi app. If you see something unfamiliar or acting strangely, investigate. 

What to do if you think something’s wrong. 

If you suspect your device or internet connection is being misused: 

1. Secure your accounts immediately. 
   Change passwords and enable alerts for unusual login attempts or transactions. 
2. Run antivirus or security software. 
   Some malware can’t be removed by uninstalling apps alone. In serious cases, reinstalling the device’s operating system may be necessary. 
3. Report it.
   File a report with the FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center at IC3.gov. Include as many details as possible. 

How does Midco monitor for cyberthreats? 

Midco values customer privacy, and our approach to cybersecurity focuses on observing traffic across our systems to identify unusual behaviors that may indicate potential threats. 

For example, it’s abnormal for an address to begin suddenly using significantly more data than usual, and it could mean a risk for that customer’s network security. It may also slow internet for nearby homes in the same area. By tracking these network trends, we aim to solve issues early and protect service quality for all customers. 

It’s important to note that unauthorized applications or downloads can carry serious security and legal risks. Such actions may not only expose your home network to threats but can also lead to degraded internet performance for you and others in your area.