how could someone steal an IP address?

Question

i found out someone was using my IP address how would this happen?
Would it have to be someone nearby or could anyone do it?

Answer 1

Alot of people use the same IP address due to the fact that there is a limited number. Your IP address also changes everytime you turn off your computer. What distinguishes one computer from the other on the internet is the Media Access Control (MAC) address which is unique for every Network Interface Card in every computer. When your computer sends information over the internet it sends your IP and your MAC address with every packet.



if someone spoofs your MAC address thats when you should be worried.

Answer 2

If you receive a dynamic(automatic) IP then it may have happened because:



1. You internet service provider's DHCP server might have given out the same IP twice causing a conflict.



2. Your wireless router's DHCP service might have given out the same address twice.





If you use a static(just one IP) it may have happened because:



1. Your service provider gave out the same address twice



2. Someone at home picked the same address as you.



If you use an automatic IP, you can try the following:



Start > run > type 'cmd' > in the new black box type 'ipconfig /release'



wait 60secs and type 'ipconfig /renew'



You should receive a new *different* address. If your IP address starts '192.168.1.x' then the problem is with your wireless router. if you receive a different address but it still conflicts with someone else then you need to call your ISP

Answer 3

If you're talking about just "stealing" an I.P. address, to use for "hacking", then you'd probably use a program like Cain and Abel, which is a program to poison for I.P.'s.

Answer 4

Vry likely your wireless was unsecured. reasonably close by would pick it up - I can see about 8 of my neighbours.