📶 Let go: D-Link’s VPN routers have hit their end-of-life, making it an easy way for hackers to enter your network. No security patches are coming. If cybercriminals get in, they can spy on your activity and steal your passwords or credit card info. Unsure if you’re affected? Contact D-Link.
Millions of routers from Netgear, Linksys, D-Link and more at risk of malware attack
Routers are one of the most important pieces of tech in our lives that most people never think about. If there is a problem with the router, it can leave your whole system vulnerable to malware or attack from hackers.
Now, a new malware attack is targeting millions of popular routers. Security researchers discovered malware called BotenaGo, and it packs a mighty punch. Tap or click here to see how a fake smart TV remote is hiding malware.
If you have any of the routers on the list, you must take steps to minimize the risk of attack. Read on for critical steps to protect your router.
Here’s the backstory
BotenaGo malware has been designed to exploit as many as 33 vulnerabilities spanning different router brands and IoT devices.
The malware works by creating a backdoor on the router and patiently waits to attack. It lurks in the dark back alley, and when a device wants to move through the alley using port 19412, it strikes. BotenaGo then piggybacks on the device to infiltrate networks and steal personal information.
If your router or IoT devices get infected with BotenaGo, criminals could use them in botnet attacks against websites or as delivery systems for spam emails. And cybercriminals behind the malware could change the payload and use BotenaGo for other nefarious purposes in the future.
The affected routers include:
- DrayTek Vigor2960
- D-Link DIR-645 Wired/Wireless Router
- Netgear WN604, WNAP210v2, WNAP320, WNDAP350, WNDAP360, and WNDAP660
- Netgear R6250 and DGN2200
- GPON home routers
- Linksys X3000
- D-Link DIR-610
- Comtrend VR-3033
- Tenda AC15 AC1900
- ZTE F460 and F660
In a blog post, AT&T’s Alien Labs explained that BotenaGo is only one part of a much larger “malware suite” and is just a module in the infection of machines.
How to protect your router from malware
The best defense that you have against this malware attack is to make sure that your router is updated with the latest firmware. You should also ensure your device’s operating systems and apps are updated.
Router warning: Patch your D-Link or ASUS router now
Router security is a dicey subject matter in the tech world. Getting a full understanding of how it works can be a brutal and mind-numbing process, but it’s more important now than ever thanks to rising rates of cybercrime.
20 popular router models are major security risks
In many homes, the router is the gateway to the wide and wild world of the internet. It’s that little gadget you connect your devices to for internet access. It’s an essential component in our internet-connected households and businesses.
Pass on this NAS: Over 60,000 D-Link network-attached storage (NAS) devices let hackers slip in data-stealing code. Affected models include the DNS-320 Version 1.00, DNS-320LW Version 1.01.0914.2012, DNS-325 versions 1.01 and 1.02, and the DNS-340L Version 1.08. D-Link’s advice? Replace it. Here’s an alternative.
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