Reset Routers to Stop Russian Malware – Here’s How to Do It
The Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI) and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) want everyone to reset home routers. The Feds issued the warning in an urgent bulletin. Here’s how to do it!
VPNFilter is a malware that has infected an estimated 500,000 routers in 54 countries. The malware renders routers inoperable. It is also capable of collecting data from compromised routers as well.
It isn’t easy to remove the Russian malware. The FBI needs your help in tracking down the servers that launch the malware attack. Resetting your home router does not mitigate the malware, but it does make it easier for the FBI to trace it back to its servers as the malware tries to locate missing files.
Image Source: Cisco Systems, Inc
Rebooting a router is easy and does not require any technical knowledge. It takes just a minute to accomplish a reset.
How to Reset Your Home Router:
- Find your WIFI router’s power button
- Press the button to shut it down
- Wait 60 seconds
- Push the Power button to turn it on again
If you cannot locate the power button, then simply remove the power cord for 60 seconds and then replace it. While you’re at it, upgrade firmware if it is out-of-date and update all hardware passwords. Note that a router reboot will not purge an infected router of the malware, but a reset will! To accomplish a factory reset, follows the directions for your specific router. After a reset, you will have to reconfigure all your network settings because it will all be wiped out (yes, this is a warning!) That means any device that was connected to your router will have to be reconnected and your network name will revert back to the factory settings. Be sure you know what the original factory admin username and password are BEFORE you knock yourself off your own WiFi without any way to look up the technical specs on your router.
What is VPNFilter?
VPNFilter is a malware designed by the hacker group Sofacy Group. You may be more familiar with their other names The Sofacy Group, also known as A.P.T. 28 and Fancy Bear.
Image Source:
Cisco Systems, Inc
https://blog.talosintelligence.com/2018/05/VPNFilter.html
