Virgin Media warns Super Hub 2 users: Change your password NOW!
Virgin Media has issued an urgent alert advising all Super Hub 2 router users to change their passwords immediately. A recent investigation uncovered that hackers could easily break into vulnerable home networks if default passwords remain unchanged.
Hackers break in within DAYS
Consumer watchdog Which? revealed hackers could access home networks and connected gadgets in as little as four days. Ethical hackers at SureCloud successfully infiltrated the Super Hub 2 router. Virgin Media confirmed this security flaw isn’t unique to their device – other routers of a similar vintage are also at risk. To combat this, Virgin Media is offering customers a free upgrade to the Boosted Hub 3.0, which boasts improved security features.
Smart gadgets left exposed
Which? tested 15 popular smart devices – from wireless cameras and smart padlocks to children’s Bluetooth toys – for security weaknesses. Eight of them had glaring flaws. The Fredi Megapix CCTV system ran online with a default admin account and no password, leaving thousands of feeds open to public viewing. Alarmingly, hackers could pan and tilt cameras to spy inside homes.
The CloudPets Bluetooth toy was also hacked by SureCloud, allowing strangers to play voice messages to children without permission.
Manufacturers must get a grip on security
Which? contacted makers of eight flawed products. Most responded with software patches and security upgrades, but Fredi Megapix and CloudPets manufacturers stayed silent. The watchdog called on the industry to stop neglecting basic security – insisting on unique passwords, two-factor authentication, and regular updates for all internet-connected devices.
Virgin Media users: Don’t wait. Change your passwords on both your router and network NOW if you haven’t already!
