Scams and threats to avoid, plus new security tools
Security flaws in D-Link routers
What happened?
A researcher found security flaws in seven D-Link router models. It’s thought hackers could have used the weaknesses to take remote control of a router and modem and spy on people’s online activity. Writing on his blog (www.snipca. com/10334), Craig Heff ner said the DIR-100 (pictured), DI-524, DI-524UP, DI-604S, DI-604UP, DI-604+ and TM-G5240 models were at risk. He also claimed two models made by Japanese company Planex (www.planex.net) were aff ected. Th e fl aw, known as a backdoor, lets hackers bypass normal security authentication while remaining undetected. Fortunately, there’s no evidence it’s been exploited by hackers. Craig Heff ner belongs to a group of hackers called /dev/ttys0 (www.devttys0.com), which delves into devices such as routers and set-top boxes looking for vulnerabilities that companies should fix.
What should I do?
If you use any of these routers you should install D-Link’s fi rmware updates to fix the fl aws. At the time of going to press, the company said these would be available by the end of October. In a statement posted on its website (www.snipca. com/10335), D-Link wrote: “We are proactively working with the sources of these reports as well as continuing to review across the complete product line to ensure that the vulnerabilities discovered are addressed”. On the same webpage you’ll also fi nd fi rmware updates to fix other vulnerabilities identified earlier this year. If you use any of the routers listed you should install the update now. We go along with D-Link’s advice, especially that you should ignore emails that claim your router is in danger of being hacked and prompt you to click a link. Th ese emails will defi nitely be scams. You should also disable remote access to your router if you don’t need it.
New tools
Ashampoo Anti-Virus 2014
Ashampoo has launched its first antivirus software since 2009, using malwareblocking technology from Bitdefender and Emsisoft. The program, which works with every version of Windows from XP to 8.1, contains all the necessary tools you need to stay safe, such as real-time protection, which thwarts attacks as they happen. What’s really impressive, though, is that it also contains two privacy tools from Ashampoo’s WinOptimizer software (www.snipca.com/10363): File Wiper to erase files and folders, and Internet Cleaner to delete your browsing history. Ashampoo Anti-Virus comes in one, two and three-year packages, priced £29.99, £39.99 and £54.99 respectively. There’s also a free trial which lasts 10 days if you don’t register (30 days if you do). Helpfully, you don’t need to provide your credit-card details to sign up for the free trial.
