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Similar to small servers, multiple types of information from different devices pass through home routers. The mounting risks are only compounded by the fact that routers have had a security problem for years. Home routers are major targets for malicious actors, and we have seen cybercriminals increasingly turn their focus to these devices.
A compromised home router can open up the user to significant consequences: Cybercriminals can also profit by using compromised home routers in for-profit distributed denial-of-service attacks DDoS or as part of a rented botnet. Users whose compromised routers are turned into bots are only minimally affected in terms of bandwidth resources. While they might not even notice that their routers are being used for illicit purposes, the effects are serious and widespread. Services and businesses hit by a DDoS attack have to contend with possible monetary loss, damaged reputations, and of course, service disruptions for their customers.
Compromised users are unwittingly involved, but can take some effective steps to prevent such attacks by securing their home routers. Securing Your Home Routers: Understanding Attacks and Defense Strategies ].
Learn plenty of ways you can protect your home from invasion or burglary. Though many people only worry about nighttime security, most burglaries actually You don't have to redecorate your entire home to keep expensive items out of. While you're away, you want to make sure your home is as secure as possible and in the house, so you don't have to worry about making it look like someone's home. Aside from snow, here are some other maintenance tasks to consider: At the very least, put your lights on a timer or leave a radio on.
Routers are in a similar situation as they are devices built and configured for ease-of-use—shipped with minimal security features and default passwords. They can easily use an online tool to find susceptible routers—there is a well-known public search engine that lists known vulnerabilities that can be exploited. Mirai and similar malware are evolving and leverage new techniques—recently they started to use different ports to compromise Linux-based firmware , including routers. Malicious actors also continue to use malware targeting DNS settings on routers. With a few straightforward steps gleaned from police experience around the country, however, you can help protect your home and belongings from thieves.
Police suggest many opportunistic thieves take advantage of unlocked homes.
Even if you are going out for a short time, lock-up your house and windows. Locksmiths can provide advice on appropriate door and window locks, and key all the windows to a single key. Also, ask your electricity supplier about locks for your power supply to prevent tampering, and keep your car locked. Police in Bundaberg, Queensland, for instance, have reported a case of a garage door opener stolen from a car, later used to burgle the owner's property.
Deter theives from targeting your house by ensuring a clear line of sight from the street.
Cut back trees and bushes that obscure your front door, look into installing movement sensor lights and report broken street lights straight away. Police also suggest making sure your house number is visible for the fastest response if you need to call for help. A high number of victims 60 per cent in the ABS research cited a door or window had been damaged or tampered with in attempted break-ins, so it pays to invest in strengthening these defences. A solid core door with a deadlock, for example, is harder to force, grilles and shutters prevent burglars from breaking in through windows, and a peep hole or lockable security screen can help keep burglars out.
Garages and garden sheds are often targets for burglars who can then use your tools or ladders to gain access to the main house police even report wheelie bins used to smash windows.
An automatic light, for instance, fitted to the shed or garage can be a useful deterrent, along with keyed locks. Ask friends to collect your mail and to stop junk mail from building up in your letterbox while you're away from home. A neighbour parking in your driveway can also help signal the house is not unoccupied. Other measures could include internal lights or a radio set on timers and organising for someone to mow your lawn. Most people know not to hide keys somewhere about the house but are you also aware that lending your keys to tradespeople and acquaintances can pose a risk?
Keys are easily copied and can provide burglars with fast, no-fuss access to your belongings. Installing a small safe in your home is a relatively low cost way to protect those items. Break up packaging for expensive new gear before tucking it into the bin or recycling.
Also, take a look at your house from the outside. With most thieves looking for cash, even a wallet or iPod left on your hall table can make your home a target. Speaking of valuables, police advise making an inventory of your belongings to have at hand in case of a break-in.
Mark your property using an engraver or ultra-violet markers and take photos of precious, one-of-a-kind possessions. Add another layer of defence to your home with an alarm system. A barking dog can also provide effective security for your home. Even installing a "Beware of the dog" sign can make thieves pause before targeting your home.
In tightknit communities, people look out for each other. Neighbours can report suspicious activity at your home and help when you're away - and you can return the favour.
And last year we saw that mobile devices were being used to execute DNS malware against home routers. What are some things I can do to prevent burglaries? Townhouses often have poorly secured sliding glass doors and small enclosed back yards, attractive elements for the burglar. We'll explain more below. So, how do they start? Click Here to Get a Free Quote.
Any advice here does not take into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. Terms, conditions, limits and exclusions apply. Commercial and Corporate Insurance. Allianz and the Community.
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