WiFi routers become a security risk over time. This also applies to the popular FritzBox. Now even the Federal Office is warning about possible FragAttacks.
Many FritzBox owners unknowingly expose themselves to great dangers. (Source: Texvector/depositphotos.com / Image montage: Netzwelt)
The FritzBox gives many people access to the Internet. Once purchased, it usually sits in the living room for years. But over time, the WiFi router becomes a security risk. However, those affected usually only notice this when it is too late.
Like WLAN routers from other manufacturers, FritzBoxes are only provided with software updates for a certain period of time. However, at some point support for certain models will be discontinued, usually after around 5 to 10 years. This means that at some point the necessary security updates to protect against FragAttacks will be missing.
FritzBox: Danger from FragAttacks
FragAttacks are attacks in which security gaps in WLAN routers are specifically exploited by hackers. The attackers not only gain access to the router, but also to the devices connected to it. In the worst case, they can get your data, passwords or other information. As early as 2021, the Federal Office for Security and Information Technology classified FragAttacks as a “business-critical IT threat”.
The good news: If you have a relatively new FritzBox, you obviously have nothing to worry about. The situation is different for these 17 old models, for which AVM has now discontinued support:
Outdated FritzBox: Support has been discontinued for these models
- FritzBox 7582
- FritzBox 7580
- FritzBox 7560
- FritzBox 7430
- FritzBox 7412
- FritzBox 7390
- FritzBox 7362 SL
- FritzBox 7360
- FritzBox 7272
- FritzBox 6840 LTE
- FritzBox 6810 LTE
- FritzBox 6430 Cable
- FritzBox 5491
- FritzBox 5490
- FritzBox 4020
- FritzBox 3490
- FritzBox 3272
If you have a FritzBox with one of these model numbers at home, you should replace it with a new WiFi router as quickly as possible. According to the Federal Office for Security and Information Technology, you can reduce the security risk when using an old router if you use the HTTPS protocol for your internet traffic. However, this does not protect you completely.
WLAN router in the test: Current models in comparison
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So it’s better to replace your old router with a new device as quickly as possible. A new FritzBox isn’t exactly cheap, but a cyber attack can cost you significantly more. To be on the safe side, you should always use an up-to-date antivirus program on your devices.
Other sources of danger
It can also be dangerous if you listen to the wrong advice on the Internet. There are a lot of misconceptions circulating online, especially when it comes to improving the Fritzbox’s WiFi signal.
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