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New Malware Can Alter Your Wireless (Wi-Fi) Router and Steal Your Info
Zlob, one of the most common pieces of malicious software (according to Microsoft), has undergone a frightening transformation. After infecting a victim's PC, Zlob checks to see if the computer is connected to a wireless router (the device that helps create the Wi-Fi hotspot in your house). If connected, then Zlob attempts to gain access by using a list of common and default username and password combinations.Assuming Zlob gains access to the router, the software then changes the DNS settings on the router to send all traffic through a hackers' servers first. DNS servers act like a phone book for the Internet, connecting the user readable addresses like Switched.com to the IP addresses that are understood by computers.
Unfortunately, most people don't bother changing the default password on their routers, thus making it easier for Zlob to infiltrate computer networks and potentially steal personal data and information.
Avoiding being beaten by this attack is relatively easy. First, set up proper security software on your PC (anti-virus and a firewall) and keep it up to date. Second, always change the default administrator passwords on your equipment, especially your router. If an attacker is able to gain access to your router, it can access your entire computer network. [Source: Washington Post]
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Comments
5
Subscribe to commentsBrettJun 12th 2008 5:37PM
You state that most people do not change the default administrator passwords, and then conclude by simply stating that people should change the default administrator passwords. The people who have not changed the default administrator passwords likely do not know how to do so. That includes me.
Can somebody explain how to do this?
I do have WEP enabled? Is that the same thing? Would having WEP enabled prevent this type of attack?
Sorry if these are dumb questions, but I don't know the answers. Thanks.
Mr. EJun 12th 2008 7:37PM
I can speak from the perspective of Linksys home routers, since that's what I've used. Generally, to get to the router's setup screens, you navigate to the first IP in your home network. In my case, that's 192.168.1.1. You'll be presented with a login challenge dialog. For Linksys routers, you don't have to specify the name, just the password. Once you've logged in, you'll be presented with numerous setup screens.
I recommend at the very least that everyone change their router access password, disable remote administration of the router (so hackers can't attack it from outside your home), and enable the highest level of wireless security your network allows. If at all possible, use WPA or WPA2 security, since WEP was cracked long ago.
Please read the documentation for your router as well, and if you've lost it, go to the vendor's site and you should be able to download a PDF version of the manual.
Mr. EJun 12th 2008 7:39PM
To be more clear, I should have said that the router's setup screens is where you can change the router administrator password.
wesJun 13th 2008 1:46AM
locked mine up tight, thanks for the heads up switched
Aa'ed AlqartaJun 13th 2008 3:24PM
I've compiled a countermeasures list to stop and prevent DNSChanger
check here http://extremesecurity.blogspot.com/2008/06/use-default-password-get-hijacked.html