By Scott Howard, Moss Rock Solutions
June 6, 2025
Your office router might be quietly putting your entire organization at risk. The FBI recently issued an alert that should make every IT professional and business leader take a hard look at their network infrastructure: cybercriminals are actively targeting aging routers to launch sophisticated attacks.
The Hidden Threat in Your Network Closet
That router humming along in your server room since 2010? It could be your cybersecurity weak spot. According to the FBI’s advisory, hackers systematically seek out end-of-life routers—devices manufacturers no longer support with security updates—to use as launching pads for illegal activities.
The attack is straightforward: criminals identify vulnerable routers, infect them with malware, then hijack them to mask their location and identity. From there, they launch cyberattacks, steal cryptocurrency, or worse—all while making it appear the attacks originate from your network.
Why Older Routers Are Prime Targets
Routers from 2010 or earlier often lack security patches needed to defend against modern threats. Unlike computers that regularly prompt for updates, routers can go years without anyone checking their security status.
Warning signs your router may be compromised:
- Overheating hardware
- Intermittent connectivity problems
- Unexpected changes to router settings
- Slower network performance
Taking Action: Your Security Checklist
Immediate Steps:
- Audit current router inventory and check ages/models
- Verify if manufacturers still provide security updates
- Update all router usernames and passwords
- Disable remote management unless essential
Strategic Planning:
- Budget for router replacement if devices are past end-of-life
- Establish regular firmware update schedules
- Consider network monitoring tools for unusual behavior alerts
The Business Case for Upgrades
Consider the cost of a security breach: downtime, data recovery, compliance issues, and reputation damage. Proactive router upgrades are typically far less expensive than reactive damage control.
For mixed-age equipment, prioritize replacing routers handling critical traffic or accessing sensitive data. You don’t need to upgrade everything simultaneously—having a replacement timeline prevents security gaps from becoming disasters.
Moving Forward
This FBI warning prompts action, not panic. Assess your router infrastructure this week and address vulnerabilities systematically. Your network security is only as strong as its weakest component—don’t let an aging router be the vulnerability that puts your organization at risk.
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