A common reason why routers get infected is that the owner forgot to change the default administrator password.
How Can a Router Get a Virus?
In some cases, viruses can modify the embedded firmware that controls the router software.
Two common router viruses that have infected thousands of routers in the past include theSwitcher TrojanandVPNFilter.
The compromised DNS servers then provide the web app with incorrect IP addresses for the websites you visit.
This infection happens in three stages.
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There are additional router viruses on the internet, and all follow the same tactic.
These viruses first infect a gadget.
Does My Router Have a Virus?
Every financial institution uses the secure HTTPS protocol.
Over time, malware can consume the computer CPU and slow down performance.
Malware running on either the computer or on the router can cause this behavior.
Combined with the other behaviors listed may mean that the router is infected.
Sometimes those sites may be spoofed sites that look similar to the real site.
Instead, go through the steps to determine if a virus is causing the behavior.
There are many of these available, but choose one that comes from a known and trusted source.
Another example is theSymantec scanthat checks specifically for the VPNFilter Trojan.
Always read the Terms of Service and Privacy Agreement.
Occasionally, one tries to be sneaky about how it collects and uses personal data.
If any scans indicate that your router is infected, take the following steps:
Reset the router.
In many cases, rebooting the router won’t thoroughly clean it of a virus infection.
Instead, perform afull router reset.
Check the manufacturer’s website for factory reset instructions.
A full factory reset clears all tweaks from the router.
If your ISP provided the router, chances are the ISP automatically pushes firmware updates to the router.
This process ensures the router has the latest patches to guard against the latest viruses.
Change the administrator password.
To prevent anyviruses or Trojansfrom reinfecting the router, immediatelychange the administrator passwordto something more complex.
A good password is your best defense against an infected router.
After you reset the virus, run afull antivirus scanon all devices that connect to the infected router.
