You Need to Know This Dangerous Security Risk Caused by Cheap Wi-Fi Routers
We rely on routers every day of the week. Whether you are connecting to your home Wi-Fi or you are busy at work, routers are the bridge that connects us to the internet.
Today’s cyberspace is full of threats. Not only are hackers more resourceful, but they also have more targets than ever before. Our smart technology opens up new points for malicious individuals to attack.
Our routers are at the center of it all, and some routers’ brands are much more dangerous than others.
Why These Routers Are a Threat
These routers contain what IT professionals refer to as a “backdoor.”
You can think of this as the back door of your home. If the door is left unlocked, anyone can walk right in.
These backdoors are programmed into the deepest layer of your router, known as its firmware. This makes them very difficult to detect and almost impossible to remove.
Now that we know the type of threat we are facing, what kind of attacks can hackers do with a backdoor?
What Can a Hacker Do With a Backdoor?
In short, they can do anything they want.
A backdoor gives a hacker full access to the system. The backdoors found in some routers give hackers instant access to all of the data and devices connected to the affected router.
Vulnerable routers can leave you open for everything from a serious data breach to having your connected devices controlled by malicious agents. This can pose a serious problem for businesses that are high-profile targets for cybercrime.
The best thing you can do is to know which types of routers are at risk.
What Types of Routers Are at Risk?
These backdoor hacks have been found in cheap, third-party routers. These devices are often made in China and sold either online or in stores at discount prices.
These cheap routers lack the commitment to quality found in name brands, and their lower standards leave them open to being manipulated by hackers.
So what can you do to keep your home and business safe from these low-budget routers?
How to Stay Safe When Buying New Technology
Since you can’t remove the backdoor from these routers, the best thing to do is to avoid the knock-off brands affected by these hacks.
When you buy a new router for your home, make sure only to buy a trusted brand. Companies like Asus, Netgear, and Belkin have been making computer equipment for years and have earned their trustworthy reputations. Sticking to recognizable brands will keep you safe from these third-party attacks.
We use routers each day, both at home and at work. Use what you’ve learned in this article to keep your family and your business safe.
