What the Tech: Tips to protect your internet router from hackers
BY JAMEY TUCKER, Consumer Tech Reporter
Your WiFi router may be the most overlooked device in your home. It quietly connects your TVs, phones, laptops, doorbells, and every other smart gadget to the internet.
But to hackers, that little box in the corner is extremely valuable.
Ars Technica reports a new malware campaign called KadNap has been quietly infecting home routers and turning them into part of a botnet. The attack was discovered by researchers at Black Lotus Labs, the security team at Lumen.
More than 14,000 devices are believed to be infected, and about 60 percent of them are located in the United States. Researchers say many of the affected devices are Asus routers, though experts say similar attacks have targeted other brands in the past.
What hackers do with infected routers
Once a router is compromised, hackers can secretly route internet traffic through it.
That allows them to hide where their activity is really coming from. The traffic may include password cracking attacks or attempts to break into other computer systems. The scary part is that most homeowners would never notice.
Your internet still works normally. There is no pop up message, warning, or alert that tells you the router has been compromised. That’s why security experts say keeping routers updated is critical. Many attacks target routers that have not been updated with the latest firmware.
A simple reboot can sometimes install updates
Many modern routers automatically download firmware updates and install them the next time the device restarts.
That means simply unplugging the router and plugging it back in can sometimes trigger a pending update to install.
It’s a good idea to restart your router occasionally anyway. It can clear temporary issues and may even improve network performance. But if you suspect your router may already be compromised, security experts recommend
something stronger.
How to factory reset your router
A factory reset wipes the router completely and restores it to the original settings it had when it left the factory. This removes malware and clears any unauthorized settings changes.
Here’s how to do it.
Step 1
Locate the reset button on the back or bottom of the router. It is usually a small recessed
button.
Step 2
Use a paperclip or pin to press and hold the reset button.
Step 3
Hold the button down for 10 to 30 seconds, depending on the router model.
Step 4
Release the button and allow the router to restart. This may take a few minutes.
Step 5
Reconnect to the router and set up a new administrator password. Do not reuse the default
password printed on the label.
Step 6
Check for firmware updates in the router’s web interface or mobile app and install the latest version.
Other router security tips
There are a few other simple steps that can help protect your home network.
Change the router’s default administrator password.
Disable remote administration if you do not use it.
Keep the router’s firmware updated.
Restart the router occasionally to allow updates to install.
Most people set up their router once and never think about it again. But hackers are constantly scanning the internet looking for vulnerable devices.
Spending just a few minutes securing your router can help keep your entire home network safe.
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