Recently, the FBI issued a warning to all Internet users to reboot their routers. They stated that this would assist in identifying and potentially removing, but not eliminate, malware (thought to be Russian in origin) that has infected hundreds of thousands of such devices.
Over at another Forum, some doubt has been cast on this simple task, as well as the motives behind it.
Based on research that I've conducted, as well as my knowledge of computer security, this does seem a credible threat.
The malware appears to be taking advantage of the fact that most people don't reboot their routers often. In fact, most don't even know what a router is.
Rebooting your router will wipe out its working memory, and temporarily at least, hinder the malware.
The true fix would be to:
- Reset your router to factory settings, thus overwriting any compromised code, temporary or otherwise
- Ensure that your default password is set to something other than its default (and that it's strong)
- Upgrade the firmware of your router, if necessary, to keep it current
- Disable remote router administration, including WPS.
Most low power broadcasters that are reliant on automation, as well as Internet streaming, should have the know how to accomplish those tasks. Securing your router, which is only a computer after all, is just as important as securing any other computer that you own.