Mrs. Mecomber’s Scrapbook

Well, I’m ignoring my own technical problems with my stupid printer to let you know about some important developments in the computer world. One has to do with an important security breach on home routers. It’s important because more and more people are using routers to connect to the Internet via broadband or cable.

In this particular attack, an email is infected with malware. if you open the email, malicious code takes over.

According to Symantec researcher Zulfikar Ramzan, the attack changes a router’s settings controlling the domain name system server that translates domain names like theregister.co.uk into numerical IP address.

Malicious javascript code embedded into one email message he uncovered caused the URL for a popular Mexico-based bank to map to a fraudulent website controlled by the attackers. Anyone who tried to do business on the rogue site would have their banking credentials lifted.

If you have changed the default administration name and password (most routers use “admin”), you should be OK. But a lot of people never bother to change these things. Secure your network and Internet connection, people! Even in my small town, my wireless laptop has picked up multiple neighbors with no security. I could connect to their networks without a hitch! If the users had no firewall, I could even view their computer’s files or change them. This is awful! If you don’t know how to change your router’s settings, look in your manual, or do a search for your manufacturer online. Or find a geeky teen-aged relative to help you. Always secure your connection!