The FBI has issued a new security alert warning home and business owners that old, unsupported internet routers are being actively targeted by cybercriminals. If you live in Fresno, Clovis, Madera, or anywhere in the Central Valley, this may directly affect you. At Central Valley TechCare, we want to help you protect your digital life — affordably and professionally — using modern firewall solutions like Firewalla.
What’s the FBI Warning About?
In a flash notice released on May 7, the FBI warned that “end-of-life” (EOL) routers—those that are no longer supported with security updates—are vulnerable to malware, remote hacking, and botnet exploitation. Once compromised, attackers can:
- Install malware that communicates secretly with your network
- Use your devices for spamming, DDoS attacks, or data theft
- Sell access to your router as a proxy through shady services like 5socks or AnyProxy
These routers are often compromised without the owner ever knowing.
Is Your Router on the FBI’s List?
These outdated Linksys routers are specifically named as vulnerable:
Linksys E1200, E2500, E1000, E4200, E1500, E300, E3200, WRT320N, E1550, WRT610N, E100, M10, WRT310N
If you’re still using one of these devices, it is no longer safe — even if it appears to be working.
Signs Your Router Might Be Compromised:
- Slower internet speeds or dropped connections
- Unusual data usage spikes
- Remote access turned on — often without your knowledge
- File names like: banana.gif-to-elf_t, message.gif-upx, viewpost_gif_to_elf_s
- Strange activity on connected devices
What Should You Do?
Replace Your Router Immediately: If you’re using a router on the list, the safest option is to replace it with a modern model that receives regular firmware updates.
Disable Remote Administration: Until your device is replaced, log into your router settings and disable any “remote management” or “remote access” options.
Reboot the Router: A temporary fix — rebooting may kick malware out of memory. But without patch support, malware can return.
Report Suspicious Activity: You can report suspected router hacks to your local FBI field office at: https://www.fbi.gov/contact-us/field-offices
Better Protection with Smart Home Firewall:
At Central Valley TechCare, we are able to deploy a smart Firewall for your home or small business. We assess your network, recommend and deploy a powerful, affordable firewall device that gives you enterprise-grade security without the complexity.
What Does A Smart Firewall Do?
- Real-time traffic monitoring — See what’s happening on your network
- Intrusion detection — Blocks known threats before they reach your devices
- Content filtering — Keep kids and employees away from unsafe websites
- Encrypted DNS (DoH) — Keeps your browsing private and secure
- Ad blocking & bandwidth control
- VPN support — Encrypt all your internet traffic
We handle the installation, configuration, and ongoing support for homes, remote workers, and small businesses across Fresno, Clovis, and nearby communities.
Why Choose Central Valley TechCare?
- Certified technicians (A+, Network+, Security+, Linux+)
- Friendly, local service you can trust
- Based in Fresno, serving the entire Central Valley
- Affordable packages – secure your network for less than the cost of a virus cleanup
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