So for almost a month, cyber security company Cisco warned about the VPNFilter malware. If it gets on your router, then it can stop it from working, maybe even permanently. The IT service term is ‘bricking’. The FBI urges people to restart routers to fight malware.
So here is what we know. The VPNFilter came from Russia. The original target was Ukraine, in response to the conflict between those two nations. But Ukraine isn’t the only victim. In fact, over 500,000 routers in over 50 countries are affected. This includes the United States. This malware also has the power to spy on you, even during your most private moments. Then it can steal your sensitive information too. No routing maker is immune: Netgear, Asus, D-Link, Linksys, Mikrotik. Here is a list of specific routers that are in danger.
So what do we do about it? This is why the FBI urges people to restart routers. All you have to do is unplug your router. Leave it for 10 seconds, maybe even a few seconds longer. Then plug it back in. If your router is on the list, then do this immediately! Cyber experts also suggest you update your router’s firmware and change your router’s passwords. Remember, the harder they are, the harder hackers can break into them.
But now, I’d like to ask some questions? How does a malware they use to fight a national conflict spread all around the world? How did it cause a potential crisis? Why would they send it worldwide, if they meant it to be a fighting tool between two nations? These are questions I can’t answer. Some say they used the VPNFilter in the 2016 election to influence the results. But let’s not open up that can of worms again. But if you need help with routers issues, our pc repairs team can help. What questions do you have about this?