The FBI is warning Americans after thousands of home and small office routers were compromised by a Russian military hacking group, Fancy Bear. This operation, called Operation Masquerade, has affected over 5,000 devices across 23 states, including Massachusetts. The hackers didn’t break into computers but instead targeted routers to steal passwords, emails, and sensitive data.
To protect themselves, router owners should:
– Replace their router if the manufacturer no longer supports it with updates
– Update their router’s software to the latest version
– Check DNS settings for unfamiliar addresses
– Review firewall settings to block outside access
TP-Link routers were primarily targeted, but all router owners should take action regardless of brand. Visit your manufacturer’s website to find software updates and check if it’s still being supported. If a router is no longer getting updates, it’s time to replace it. If you think your router may have been compromised, file a report with the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center or call your local FBI field office.
Source: https://www.masslive.com/news/2026/04/fbi-warning-russian-spies-hacked-home-routers-in-23-states-is-yours-one-of-them.html