Fast company logo
|
advertisement

Security researchers at Kaspersky Lab have labeled a two-part malware affecting MikroTik routers as “masterpieces,” reports Engadget. Nicknamed “Slingshot,” the malware affects the routers and computers connected to them in two phases: The first runs hostile kernel code without crashes, while the second stores the malware files in an encrypted virtual file system that can […]

Newly discovered router malware is a “masterpiece”

[Photo: Martinelle/Pixabay]

BY Michael Grothaus

Security researchers at Kaspersky Lab have labeled a two-part malware affecting MikroTik routers as “masterpieces,” reports Engadget. Nicknamed “Slingshot,” the malware affects the routers and computers connected to them in two phases: The first runs hostile kernel code without crashes, while the second stores the malware files in an encrypted virtual file system that can even shut down components of itself when it detects forensic tools are being run on the system to detect malware. Given the sophistication of the malware, Kaspersky says it’s likely that a government agency is behind it. Worst of all? The malware has been infecting MikroTik routers (and possibly other brands) since at least 2012.

advertisement

Recognize your brand’s excellence by applying to this year’s Brands That Matter Awards before the early-rate deadline, May 3.

CoDesign Newsletter logo
The latest innovations in design brought to you every weekday.
Privacy Policy

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Michael Grothaus is a novelist and author. He has written for Fast Company since 2013, where he's interviewed some of the tech industry’s most prominent leaders and writes about everything from Apple and artificial intelligence to the effects of technology on individuals and society. More


Explore Topics