News

Hundreds of Cisco Routers Carrying Malware

Nearly 200 Cisco internet routers have been found to carry malware, reports volunteer internet security organisation Shadowserver Foundation. News of infected Cisco routers was first reported by the company itself back in August, when it was revealed that attackers had replaced firmware on the devices with malicious malware implants, allowing them full access to networks and all information passed through it.

Last week, Madiant of FireEye claimed that 14 infected Cisco routers had been over four countries – calling the threat SYNful Knock – though Cisco was quick to point out that it is not the only vendor that is vulnerable to such an attack.

“While Mandiant saw this attack across specific Cisco models, the key focus of this research is more about an evolution in attack types and how important it is for all network administrators to ensure security best practices are implemented,” said Yvonne Malmgren, Business Critical Communications Manager for Cisco Corporate Communications, told SecurityWeek Network devices, of many types and from many companies, are high-value targets for malicious actors.”

Mandiant later reported that the number of confirmed infections of Cisco hardware had risen to 79, over 19 countries. Monday then brought the news, courtesy of Shadowserver, that 199 routers were found to be carrying SYNful Knock, one-third of which are believed to be within the US.

“It is important to stress the severity of this malicious activity. Currently, Shadowserver believes that any machine that responds to this scan is potentially compromised. Compromised routers should be identified and remediated as a top priority,” a Shadowserver spokesperson said.

Cisco has published an article regarding the detection and countenance of SYNful Knock.

Thank you Security Week for providing us with this information.

Image courtesy of diTii.

Ashley Allen

Disqus Comments Loading...

Recent Posts

Still Wakes the Deep 

LIVE THE HORROR: An immersive disaster story aboard a stunningly realised North Sea oil rig,…

4 hours ago

PHILIPS 275V8LA – 27 Inch QHD Monitor

The Philips VA LED display uses an advanced multi-domain vertical alignment technology that gives you…

4 hours ago

EPOMAKER Ajazz AK820 Pro 75% Gasket-mounted Mechanical Keyboard 

【TFT Screen: The Interactive Interface】This 75% mechanical keyboard comes equipped with a TFT Screen, serving…

4 hours ago

Funko Fusion

FANDOM FUSION Play as your favorite characters and wield their unique weapons and skills. Team…

4 hours ago

Shin Megami Tensei V: Vengeance Standard Edition

The Definitive Version of Shin Megami Tensei V - Fully evolved with stunning visuals for…

4 hours ago

Hand Warmers Rechargeable 2 Pack

【Unique Split Design】5200mAh hand warmers rechargeable together with double-sided heating function, split snap swivel design,…

4 hours ago