14 DAY TRIAL // Virgin Media has issued a warning to nearly 800,000 customers after it discovered that some of its routers are vulnerable to hacking, asking users to change passwords to remain protected.
A research conducted by consumer group Which? revealed that Super Hub 2 routers offered by Virgin Media to its UK customers can be hacked to access connected devices, including CCTV cameras, that would basically give attackers the power of spying on users.
The notification concerns customers still using default network and router passwords, with Virgin Media explaining that other routers from the same generation are very likely to be vulnerable as well.
“We continually upgrade our systems and equipment to ensure that we meet all current industry standards. We regularly support our customers through advice and updates and offer them the chance to upgrade to a Hub 3.0 which contains additional security provisions,” Virgin Media was quoted as saying.
Other manufacturers affected as well
The study conducted by Which? with help from security vendor SureCloud discovered flaws in 8 of 15 routers, with a home CCTV system hacked to look inside the home of a customer. Hackers got control of the cameras and were even allowed to move them inside the house.
Which? says it has already contacted the router makers to notify them about the vulnerabilities in their products and recommended customers to change the default passwords as soon as possible. The hacking of the connected devices was possible after accessing the router with the default password.
“There are a number of steps people can take to better protect their home, but hackers are growing increasingly more sophisticated. Manufacturers need to ensure that any smart product sold is secure by design,” Which? said.
Vulnerabilities are not public for the time being, but it goes saying that customers should change their passwords as soon as possible because following news of hackable routers cybercriminals are expected to increase their efforts of finding vulnerable devices.