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Hackers use WLAN routers and servers to build botnets. Now the IP addresses and passwords of over half a million devices have been published freely on the Internet. But you can take action, for example by installing an update. More on this in the rest of the text - we also explain how to optimize your WLAN in the video.
Time and again, hackers manage to gain access to home devices such as WLAN routers or smart homes - often unnoticed by their users. The American tech portal ZDNet has now reported that a list with the login data of over 500,000 devices has been made publicly accessible. These include WLAN routers, servers and smart home devices from all over the world. Hackers use such lists to create botnets with which they attack websites. This is because the Telnet protocol, for which the leaked credentials are intended, can be used to gain unhindered access to routers and other devices.
According to information from ZDNet, the list was created by searching the Internet for unprotected devices and then trying out default or common passwords on them. The portal cooperates with security experts who inform affected providers and customers promptly. Nevertheless, there are measures that can help every user secure their WLAN network and any smart home devices against hackers and attacks.
Security for WLAN routers
To ensure the security of your WLAN router, you should make sure that firmware updates are always installed promptly. In many cases, these bring fixes for security gaps. You should also regularly change both the WLAN password and the login for the router configuration.
The Telnet password that was leaked for the affected routers and IoT devices is the same for routers from many manufacturers as it is in the router’s web interface. It is therefore advisable to delete the default login here and choose a secure password - preferably one generated by a good password manager such as LastPass or KeePass.
Making your smart home more secure: Here’s how
Secure passwords and up-to-date firmware are also essential in the smart home. Since smart assistants, doorbells and other intelligent systems in the home involve many different providers, they often have lower security standards. In an interview with CHIP, security expert Keren Elazari gave tips on how to improve security in the smart home.
You can use the Bitdefender Home Scanner tool to display outdated firmware and insecure passwords in your home network. In addition, the following applies: Find out how secure your future device is in the smart home already when you buy it. Manufacturers that have already been involved in multiple data scandals should be avoided.