FBI Now Warning Minnesota Residents Of At-Home Cyber Attack Threat
I can't remember the last time I went an entire week without being warned of some sort of scam trying to rip me off. I'm sure you're also tiring of all the scams out there, but the fact of the matter is that scammers are everywhere, trying new and creative ways to take our personal information and our money.
Earlier this month, for example, Minnesota residents were warned of a scam that involved scammers creating fake ads claiming to be associated with Northern Lights Casino, which tempted people with $1,500 if they downloaded an app. Unfortunately, there is no app associated with the casino, and the scammers just want to download dangerous software to your smartphone.
Most scams occur when criminals call victims, or send texts or emails, and most of the time, it's fairly easy to tell when you're being targeted for a scam. However, a recent scam that is happening in Minnesota and throughout the country can happen to you without your knowledge.
There are no calls, texts, or emails, and victims are being targeted in their own homes.
FBI Warns Of Cyber Attacks On Personal Home And Business Networks
Most people are now aware of malware. Malware, short for malicious software, is defined as any program or code designed to harm a computer, network, or server. It can take various forms, including viruses, worms, Trojan horses, ransomware, and spyware. Malware can steal data, disrupt normal operations, or even encrypt files, demanding a ransom for their release.
Recently, the FBI has been warning people of increased reports of TheMoon malware, which first surfaced in 2014. This dangerous malware targets people who have outdated routers in their homes or businesses. The outdated routers are no longer receiving security or other updates from manufacturers, leaving them vulnerable to cyber threats.
Criminals have been exploiting these weaknesses to install malware on private devices. Once they infiltrate systems, the cyber criminals can cause disruption and gain unauthorized access, often to steal money or sensitive information from users.
The malware also communicates with a command and control (C2) server, which issues instructions that include directing the infected device to search for additional vulnerable routers, allowing the infection to spread and the network to grow.
Which Routers Are Vulnerable To This Malware?
According to the FBI, if you have a router from 2010 or earlier, you're vulnerable to this cyber attack, and you should replace it right away.
While any router from 2010 or earlier is vulnerable, the FBI included a list of specific router models that seem to be targeted the most. The full list is below, and it includes models like the Linksys E1200, E2500, WRT610N, and M10.
- E1200
- E2500
- E1000
- E4200
- E1500
- E300
- E3200
- WRT320N
- E1550
- WRT610N
- E100
- M10
- WRT310N
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People are urged to check their routers to ensure that they are still receiving security updates from the manufacturer, which lowers the chance of becoming a target of this cyberattack.
These Common Household Items Are Now Banned In Minnesota
- Check the label - Look for products that are labeled as PFAS-free.
- Check for keywords - Look for words like "waterproof," "stain-repellent," or "dirt-repellant" on the tag.
- Check for ingredients - Avoid products that contain ingredients with "perfluoro" or "fluoro" in their name.
- Use a third-party verification service - Some organizations offer third-party verification of products that claim to be made without PFAS.
Gallery Credit: David Drew
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