FBI Warns: Cybercriminals Exploiting Outdated Routers for Illicit Activities

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The FBI has issued a critical alert regarding the exploitation of end-of-life (EOL) routers by cybercriminals. These outdated devices, which no longer receive security patches or updates from manufacturers, are being hijacked to create proxy networks that facilitate a wide range of illicit activities. These cybercriminals are leveraging vulnerabilities in these routers to conceal their identities while launching cyberattacks.


The FBI has identified that older routers, particularly those manufactured before 2010, are at risk. Models such as the Linksys E1000, E1500, E2500, and Cisco M10 are especially vulnerable to exploitation. These devices, long past their prime, no longer benefit from manufacturer support or security updates, making them easy targets for malicious actors.

The primary method of exploitation involves malware like TheMoon, which specifically targets these outdated routers. Once infected, these devices are turned into proxy servers that are utilized by cybercriminal networks. Some of the most notable groups using these compromised routers include 5Socks and Anyproxy. These networks enable cybercriminals to remain anonymous while engaging in illegal activities like fraud, data theft, and cryptocurrency theft. 

Another example is the Seowon SLR-120 router vulnerability (CVE-2020-17456) that allows unauthenticated remote code execution through simple POST requests to the router’s system_log.cgi endpoint.

Once compromised, the malware often uses code similar to:


These commands download and execute the malicious payload that establishes persistent control.

To defend against these attacks, the FBI recommends:

  • Replace end-of-life routers immediately with newer, supported models.
  • Apply all available firmware and security updates promptly.
  • Disable remote administration through router settings.
  • Implement strong, unique passwords (16-64 characters).
  • Reboot routers regularly to flush temporary malware.

Signs of a compromised router may include overheating, unexpected setting changes, and intermittent connectivity issues.

For more detailed information, visit the FBI’s Public Service Announcement: ic3.gov.

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