Is Your Router Updated?

Not a month goes by without some new router exploit. The website routersecurity.org, which helps track exploits, shows recent exploits in many popular brands of routers. The issues include outdated operating systems, old versions of software, and hardcoded credentials that can be used from anywhere in the world. Unfortunately, many users who own their routers don’t keep them updated.

While it is true that some newer router models automatically update themselves, many times, that feature must be enabled. Older routers may not have that feature at all, and sadly many popular routers have been completely abandoned by their creators without any security patches.

What is the danger?
A few years ago, when criminals broke into routers, they used it to host websites of stolen programs or pornography. While this might still be the case, these days, hacked routers are used by criminals to spy on network traffic, hack your DNS settings, steal your passwords, and mine cryptocurrency. Another popular tactic is to present you with a phony technical support page, complete with a fake phone number.

What can you do?
The first thing to do is make sure your router’s firmware and other software are up to date. How to do this will vary depending on your router brand. You can refer to the documents that came with your router or do an Internet search if you aren’t sure how. Check to see if your router supports automatic updates. If it does, turn it on to automatically get the security fixes that keep the bad guys out.

One thing to keep in mind is that the update process needs to run without losing power. Once you tell your router to update, don’t unplug it or expect to use it until it is finished. You may see random flashing lights, and the router might even reboot multiple times.

Another thing to consider doing is to purchase a new router. If your router is more than 3 or 4 years old, the router may be no longer supported. You should check your router’s website to be sure. Your device won’t get any critical security updates if it is no longer supported by the company that made it. That will leave you vulnerable to security flaws and other issues.

What can ITC do?
If you want to avoid the hassle of updating your router and managing your connections, you could also consider leasing a router from ITC. One significant advantage of our Blast Wi-Fi routers is that we work to keep them as up-to-date and secure as possible. We take care of things like firmware updates and other security measures so you can rest assured knowing that your router is secure.