UK Warns of Russian Hackers Targeting Internet Routers for Espionage
The UK's National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) has issued a warning that Russian hackers, likely linked to the APT28 group, are exploiting vulnerabilities in commonly sold internet routers to conduct espionage. These attacks allow malicious actors to harvest user credentials, redirect victims to fake websites, and access other devices on home networks, such as PCs and phones. Professor Alan Woodward from the University of Surrey emphasized that edge devices like routers are often overlooked security weak points. The NCSC described the operations as opportunistic, targeting a wide pool of users before filtering for high-value intelligence targets. This incident follows similar patterns seen globally, including US bans on foreign-made consumer routers due to national security risks. Experts advise individuals and small businesses to keep router firmware updated and monitor for unusual network activity to mitigate these threats.
Wire timeline
UK Warns of Russian Hackers Targeting Internet Routers for Espionage
The UK's National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) has issued a warning that Russian hackers, likely linked to the APT28 group, are exploiting vulnerabilities in commonly sold internet routers to conduct espionage. These attacks allow malicious actors to harvest user credentials, redirect victims to fake websites, and access other devices on home networks, such as PCs and phones. Professor Alan Woodward from the University of Surrey emphasized that edge devices like routers are often overlooked security weak points. The NCSC described the operations as opportunistic, targeting a wide pool of users before filtering for high-value intelligence targets. This incident follows similar patterns seen globally, including US bans on foreign-made consumer routers due to national security risks. Experts advise individuals and small businesses to keep router firmware updated and monitor for unusual network activity to mitigate these threats.
The Guardian