FBI: RUSSIAN HACKERS HAVE INFECTED HOME ROUTERS

By Miriam Raftery

May 30, 2018 (San Diego) – The FBI has issued a warning of Russian hackers infecting computer routers. The hack is linked to an espionage group loading malware that has already caused major attacks in the Ukraine and has now been found on home and office computer routers in the U.S.

The federal law enforcement agency is asking the public to help thwart a cyberattack by taking the following steps:

Turn your router off, then turn it back on  again.  This will temporarily disrupt the malware and erase parts of it, though it’s still possible that your router could be reinfected.

For better protection, be sure your router has updated software and create a strong password. Some routers have default passwords that have never been changed and are easy to hack, such as 1-2-3-4.

You could also disable remote management settings on your router.

If you need help to protect your router, check with your router manufacturer, since several major router makers have posted instructions for users on how to update their software and protect their systems.