Zyxel Routers Vulnerable to Chinese Hacker Group Attacks: A Wired-Verge Alert

A group of hackers with ties to Chinese entities may have been targeting dozens of telecommunications companies over the past four years through a vulnerability in Zyxel CPE routers. Researchers recently uncovered that a group known as Weaver Ant had infected numerous Zyxel CPE routers using a previously unknown vulnerability. This flaw allowed the attackers to create a backdoor into the Router’s system, potentially granting them access to sensitive data transmitted through these devices, including valuable information from various telecom operators in different countries.

While the group primarily targeted Chinese-based operators, there is a possibility that they also carried out attacks in other countries by exploiting vulnerabilities in these routers. The flaw they exploited allowed them to create a backdoor that was nearly impossible to detect using traditional security measures, enabling remote access to the compromised devices. This access not only provided control over the router’s settings but also allowed for monitoring its traffic and remote manipulation for various purposes.

The code used by the Weaver Ant group’s backdoor was designed to be as discreet as possible, even in its malicious activities, in order to avoid detection by security systems. The data collected from the compromised routers could then be sent to the attackers’ control systems, from where they could issue commands to the vulnerable devices for a range of activities.

Researchers believe that Weaver Ant has been conducting its operations across multiple telecom operators, primarily in the Asian region, for the past four years. During this time, thousands of data points from these operators and their customers may have been collected and exploited for various purposes.

This discovery raises concerns about the security of routers and the potential vulnerabilities they may possess. It serves as a reminder that even seemingly insignificant devices can become gateways for cyberattacks, highlighting the need for robust security measures and regular updates to protect against evolving threats.

As technology continues to advance, it’s crucial for both individuals and organizations to remain vigilant and proactive in safeguarding their networks and data. By staying informed about the latest security risks and taking appropriate precautions, we can better protect ourselves against the ever-present threat of cyberattacks.