HOUSEHOLDS using a popular broadband provider have been warned of a major change to their router that requires action.
Wi-Fi hubs routinely need security updates to keep hackers out and these are usually quietly rolled out to kit overnight as you sleep.
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But Sky-owned NOW has informed customers that some of its older routers will no longer receive these vital updates soon.
Sadly, the firm won’t be issuing a replacement either if any type of fault develops from July 31.
In an email to those affected seen by ISPReview, NOW says it will allow people to leave the service penalty-free if their router breaks.
To avoid hacks, the company urges customers with part-fibre superfast broadband packages to change their router’s admin password “as a minimum”.
Routers will continue to provide Wi-Fi as normal otherwise.
“Please note, your Hub is no longer receiving security and service updates, or will stop receiving security updates by 2025,” the email reads.
“However, your Hub will continue to work as normal and will keep you connected to the internet.
“We recommend, as a minimum, changing your Hub admin password to reduce the risk of security threats.
“This won’t change your WiFi password, just the password used to check your Hub details.”
The move comes after a change to the law that requires device makers to be “open with consumers on the minimum time they can expect to receive important security updates”.
NOW’s approach is different to its owner Sky which has previously offered upgrades.
Last year, anyone with the Sky Hub 3 or earlier was given a chance to claim a free replacement.
WHY YOU SHOULD TAKE ROUTER SECURITY UPDATES SERIOUSLY
By Jamie Harris, Assistant Technology and Science Editor at The Sun
Cyber criminals are constantly coming up with crafty new ways to get around security.
You only need to look at recent cyber attacks on M&S and The Co-op.
Your Wi-Fi router is the gateway to all your home’s connected devices, from mobile phones, smart TVs and laptops, to smart thermostats, connected baby monitors and so much more.
As such, if a hacker can get into your router they can make attempts on anything connected to it.
Your service provider will quietly roll out security updates usually as you sleep overnight to avoid any internet disruption.
Since the law change, they now have to tell you if they intend to stop providing security updates.
Should that happen, it’s important to take appropriate action.
