Story perspectives

FBI Warns: Outdated Routers Fuel Massive Malware Botnets

3/9/2026

Summary

Story summary

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) reports attackers exploit outdated remote management software on older routers to upload malware.
This vulnerability enables the formation of botnets from compromised devices.
One significant botnet infected more than 19 million devices before its dismantling in 2024.
Infected devices communicate with a command-and-control server, making detection challenging.
To mitigate these risks, users should upgrade equipment and avoid low-quality routers identified by Consumer Reports.

1 of 1

Story summary

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) reports attackers exploit outdated remote management software on older routers to upload malware.
This vulnerability enables the formation of botnets from compromised devices.
One significant botnet infected more than 19 million devices before its dismantling in 2024.
Infected devices communicate with a command-and-control server, making detection challenging.
To mitigate these risks, users should upgrade equipment and avoid low-quality routers identified by Consumer Reports.