VPNFilter

VPNFilter is part of a threatening malware attack that is being carried out worldwide. The FBI released warnings in May 2018, recommending that computer users reboot their routers in an attempt to stop VPNFilter malware attacks. According to this report, thousands of routers and networked devices around the world were compromised by VPNFilter, which allows the attackers to collect information, take over victims' devices, and interfere with affected networks and Web traffic.

The VPNFilter has Been Attacking Devices Globally

Reports of VPNFilter have noted that the size and the extent of the VPNFilter attack are quite significant and that thousands of devices have been attacked around the world. VPNFilter seems to target devices produced by several different companies, as well as network attached storage devices. According to reports from the law enforcement, the initial origin of the VPNFilter attacks is not known currently. Once VPNFilter has infected a device, it can make the device unusable. VPNFilter also allows a third-party to collect information passing through the affected device. VPNFilter uses encryption and covert networks to ensure that its activities cannot be detected or stopped. VPNFilter attacks pose a significant threat, affecting routers and other devices.

Protecting Your Data from Threats Like VPNFilter

The FBI has recommended that computer users and small businesses reboot their routers to stop VPNFilter temporarily and help law enforcement identify the affected devices. One good way to prevent VPNFilter from taking hold is to disable remote management settings and ensure that networks and routers are protected with strong passwords and encryption. It is also important that computer users update the firmware on their devices, ensuring that any security patches are applied to the device's firmware. Since VPNFilter poses a significant threat to networks and infrastructure, it is important to take immediate action against VPNFilter and similar threats.

Why You should Avoid Being Infected by the VPNFilter

Once VPNFilter is installed, it will monitor network transmissions, even if they are encrypted. VPNFilter also can be used to collect data stored on network attached storage devices. The main targets of VPNFilter seem to be routers used in small businesses and homes rather than high-profile targets. To distribute VPNFilter, it seems that the criminals have been taking advantage of weak passwords, outdated firmware, and routers still using the default remote access settings. Using these methods, criminals have been capable of accessing thousands of devices in the VPNFilter attack. By establishing numerous infected routers, VPNFilter can be used to set up a hidden virtual private network, which criminals can use to mask their communications by relaying their data through infected routers. VPNFilter can be used on numerous devices, including those manufactured by Netgear, TP-Link, Linksys, MicroTik and QNAP. The following routers and devices are vulnerable to VPNFilter at particularly:

Linksys E1200; Linksys E2500; Linksys WRVS4400N; Mikrotik RouterOS for Cloud Core Routers: Versions 1016, 1036, and 1072; Netgear DGN2200; Netgear R6400; Netgear R7000; Netgear R8000; Netgear WNR1000; Netgear WNR2000; Other QNAP NAS devices running QTS software; QNAP TS251; QNAP TS439 Pro; TP-Link R600VPN.

Using a hard reset to reboot the affected routers is the recommended course of action to disrupt VPNFilter attacks. This reset option forces the routers to restore to factory settings, removing VPNFilter automatically. Once this is done, the affected device should be set up with stronger credentials. This means ensuring that the firmware is fully up-to-date and the device is protected with a strong password. Since the VPNFilter infection may have resulted in additional malware attacks, it is important to ensure that your data is safe. Computer users must use a strong, reliable security program that is fully up-to-date to scan their computers thoroughly. It is also important to safeguard online bank accounts, social media and email accounts, and other sensitive online data.