Why the FBI Wants You to Restart Your Router
The FBI has made an unusual request to the masses, "Turn your router off and then back on again".
According to Talos, over 500,000 routers worldwide have been compromised by a Russian based malware that has the ability to block web activity, monitor web activity and otherwise render the device unusable.
This malware has the ability to either individually, or en mass, disable internet activity to up to 500,000 homes or small businesses.
So far the malware's reach, seems to consist of home office or small office routers made by Linksys, Netgear, TP-Link, QNap and Microtik. Restarting the router seems to interrupt the malware, but doesn't prevent the router from being reinfected.
If you want to be sure that your router is secure from this threat you'll want to follow the below instructions:
- 1Update your routers firmware.
- 2Reset your admin password.
- 3Disable Remote Management.
By now, all of the manufacturers have released articles on the best way to protect yourself if you're using their product. You can find them here for:
As always, if you have any more questions or need help we're here for you!
About the Author Tim Dixon
Tim Dixon is the owner of Solve IT Security.