Hacked Routers – What do I need to do?
Recent reports from security researchers show that more than 300,000 routers have been hacked. Many popular internet router vendors were affected by this attack. The hackers changed DNS server address settings, making it possible for web traffic to be intercepted and therefore sensitive information to be stolen.
What do I need to do?
If you feel confident about connecting to your router’s webpage and looking at settings yourself, then, by all means, carry on. If you get stuck – we are only a phone call away. However, if you didn’t know your router had a web page, then stop now as you could potentially make things worse!
Before you begin you need to contact your ISP (Internet Service Provider) to confirm what your DNS settings should be. You then need to compare this information with the settings in your router.
You need to update the firmware on your router (if available) to prevent the same thing from happening again.
How do I prevent this from happening to me?
The only way to guarantee you’re not a target is to use a router that comes with built-in protection against such an attack. We can provide you with such a router, contact us today to discuss this further.
If you are not going to replace your router, you should update the firmware. Check with the manufacturer that a firmware fix is available for this particular issue (DNS hacking).
My router has been compromised – what do I do?
Firstly, fix the problem. Get your router settings back to normal, do the firmware upgrade or replace your router with one which is secure.
Potentially ALL of your internet traffic has been intercepted which means that they could have your passwords, bank details, Netflix login etc. You need to change them all! Do not attempt to change your passwords until you have secured your router.
Please contact us for further help and advice on this issue.