FBI urges internet users to reboot routers

Updated May 30, 2018
FBI urges internet users to reboot routers
Most of us try not to think about the little gadget that keeps the internet running (as long as the internet is still working of course). Although, in this case you may want to consider looking into it. That little gadget (known as a router) could potentially be a vulnerability to your personal and or critical information.

The FBI has sent out a public service announcement warning that hackers are currently targeting home and office routers and networked devices worldwide. The FBI recommends any owner of small office and home office routers power cycle (reboot) the devices. Hundreds of thousands of home and office routers have already been compromised. The malicious malware is able to perform multiple functions, including possible information collection, device exploitation, and blocking network traffic.

Do I have to reboot?

Maybe not, but it’s a simple process that shouldn’t take much of your time. However, if your router model is on the list of targeted devices below, you should at least reboot your device.

The following 14 models are known to be vulnerable:

• Linksys E1200
• Linksys E2500
• Linksys WRVS4400N
• Mikrotik RouterOS for Cloud Core Routers: Versions 1016, 1036, and 1072
• Netgear DGN2200
• Netgear R6400
• Netgear R7000
• Netgear R8000
• Netgear WNR1000
• Netgear WNR2000
• QNAP TS251
• QNAP TS439 Pro
• Other QNAP NAS devices running QTS software
• TP-Link R600VPN

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