Shared WiFi Privacy: UK Guide
In the UK, shared living is common. Flatshares, university halls, and family homes all mean shared WiFi. Here's what other people on your network can actually see.
What WiFi Admins Can See
Your router logs which domains every device visits. Even with HTTPS (encrypted connections), the domain name is visible. So while they can't see what specific video you watched, they can see you visited pornhub.com. Router admin access shows this data.
Who Has Admin Access
Whoever set up the router (landlord, flatmate who pays for broadband, university IT, employer). Default router login details are often unchanged, meaning anyone on the network could check.
The Fix: VPN
A VPN encrypts all traffic including domain names. The router sees only encrypted data going to the VPN server. The WiFi admin sees you're using a VPN but nothing about where the traffic goes. NordVPN, ExpressVPN, or ProtonVPN all work.
Complete Privacy on Shared WiFi
VPN + private browsing + crypto payment. WiFi admin sees nothing. Browser saves nothing. Bank shows nothing. Total privacy in a shared living situation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can flatmate see my browsing?
If they have router admin access, they can see which domains you visit. VPN encrypts this.
Can landlord see my internet history?
If they manage the router, potentially yes. Domain names are visible. Use a VPN.
Does VPN hide from WiFi owner?
Yes. VPN encrypts all traffic including domain names. WiFi admin sees only encrypted data.