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'Chuck Norris' Botnet Drop Kicks Internet Routers Worldwide

by Caleb Johnson on February 22, 2010 at 01:40 PM

What's more annoying than Chuck Norris? We're hard pressed to think of much, but, if we really thought about it, a modem-hacking botnet named after the actor/Internet sensation would probably fit the bill.

According to PC World, Czech researchers recently discovered a botnet (a network of infected devices that work together to send spam and steal data) that hijacks routers and DSL modems. To do this, the program guesses the default administrative password on the device, and, since most modems and routers can be remotely accessed, takes it over from afar. Then, it can spread and infect other devices and networks.

The creator of Chun Kuk Do and owner of the world's fastest pair of fists got looped into this after the Italian programmer behind the botnet included the phrase "in nome di Chuck Norris" (translated: "in the name of Chuck Norris") within the source code. So, not only does Norris ruin our life by appearing in endless reruns of 'Walker, Texas Ranger,' but now he's part of an annoying Internet hack -- even if it is in name only.

There are a few things you can do to protect against this botnet, whose dastardly deeds, researcher Jan Vykopal says, spans continents. First, make sure the password on your router or modem is strong and can't be easily guessed. Second, it might be a good idea to disable the remote-access feature, and also to make sure your firmware is up-to-date. That should protect you from the botnet, but as for protection from Norris (insert Chuck Norris joke here), may God help you all. [From: PC World, via: Slashdot]

Tags: botnet, chucknorris, hack, internet, modem, router, top

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