Can your router be infected with Viruses or other Malware?
Unauthorized settings changes, redirects to unsafe sites, DNS changes, search bars you did not install, infections to other devices in your local network are some of the most common signs of a router infected with malware.
Slow internet, redirections to unsafe websites, DNS changes, browser extensions (AD Blockers), other add-ons you did not install, or annoying pop-ups (usually blocking your browser or downloading features).
These are the most common signs of a router infected with Malware.
- Slow internet: Many other factors can be slowing down your internet speed but it is also a reason to check your router for malware.Slow internet: Many other factors can be slowing down your internet speed but it is also a reason to check your router for malware.
- Site redirection: Cyber criminals tend to use the ‘website redirection’ strategy to take you to a different site and get you to enter your personal/banking information or download and install more complex viruses.
- Changes to your DNS: By changing your DNS settings, malicious third parties can divert all your traffic through their servers. Unless your traffic is encrypted, these redirects give them unlimited access to all your online activity.
- Installation of unknown software/browser extensions/tool bars: Viruses usually install unknown software or bloatware (programs that consume too many resources) on your devices to be able to take control of your devices and your whole network.
- Fake antivirus and pop-ups: Pop-ups alerting your device or network is hacked or infected with malware/viruses and offering their solution: get you to buy "enhanced protection."Fake antivirus and pop-ups: Pop-ups alerting your device or network is hacked or infected with malware/viruses and offering their solution: get you to buy "enhanced protection."
How to scan a router for viruses or malware
If the effects of malware on a router are subtle or mistaken for other factors, such as a failing hard drive, the malware may go undetected for long periods of time.
First of all, you will need reliable security software protection. Choose an antivirus software that offers to scan your network or a full-featured network inspector, scan your router for malware automatically, or periodically check your router for malware threats.
How to choose the proper software security software for you
The best and cheapest antivirus to stay protected from cyber criminals
Keeping your router safe from viruses or malware
Use strong passwords
There are other precautions you can take to prevent hackers from using your Wi-Fi as a malware distribution point, in addition to updating your router’s firmware and changing the default login and password.
Although changing your default passwords is a good start, it won’t help if the passwords are still simple to crack. Knowing how to build a strong password is the best way to stay ahead of the always-evolving field of password cracking.
Create a long, unique password for your router. exploit extreme caution with anything that a hacker could exploit to link to you via social media. Avoid using single words or terms that are frequently used in conjunction. Additionally, avoid using the same passwords several times by using a reliable password manager.
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I’m having issues with my TP-Link modem at home. After reading this, I think it may have malware…
Thank you. Very useful information!