The Internet is a great thing – but the Internet also carries some risks. A fritz box router can become a gateway for hackers.
Dortmund – The Fritzbox has been a reliable gateway to the Internet for many consumers for many years. But especially if the router has been within your four walls for several years, it can be dangerous (don't want to miss any more news about the service? Then follow RUHR24 on Google News).
FritzBox Warning: It is best to turn off 17 routers directly
The Fritzbox from the manufacturer AVM sits quietly in many German homes and rarely speaks loudly. Even though the router provides Internet access, you hardly notice anything about it. But every now and then he says: Update, please!
These updates ensure Fritzbox functionality and most importantly: the updates are intended to protect consumers from uninvited guests in the home network. Security updates provide protection against hackers (more current warnings on RUHR24).
Fritzbox is no longer secure: Routers are no longer receiving support or updates
But at some point, even the most faithful Fritzbox will have its day — at least according to manufacturer AVM. Over the years they have been discontinued and are no longer provided with firmware updates.
In addition, expired devices are also excluded from Personal Support. This means that customers will no longer receive assistance from AVM for these devices if problems arise. It will no longer be possible to use the support hotline or digital assistance on the home page.
The only bright spot is that AVM can issue emergency updates to plug known vulnerabilities Computer scientist Also published for older devices. However, this must be seen from case to case.
Better not to use Fritzbox: 17 devices no longer receiving updates
If you want to be on the safe side, you should retire older devices over time and use existing ones. Here is an overview of Fritzboxes that are currently no longer receiving in-person support:
- Fritz! Box 7582
- Fritz! Box 7580
- Fritz! Box 7560
- Fritz! Box 7430
- Fritz! Box 7412
- Fritz! Box 7390
- Fritz! Box 7362 SL
- Fritz! Box 7360
- Fritz! Box 7272
- Fritz! Box 6840 LTE
- Fritz! Box 6810 LTE
- Fritz! Box 6430 cable
- Fritz! Box 5491
- Fritz! Box 5490
- Fritz! Box 4020
- Fritz! Box 3490
- Fritz! Box 3272
Fritzbox is no longer supported: what customers can still do
If customers try to get support for one of these devices via the AVM home page, the message will appear: “Personal phone, email, and chat support has now been discontinued for this product.”
However, the Fritzbox manufacturer refers to a “knowledge database”, where customers can get answers to frequently asked questions. Defective devices can also be returned within the five-year warranty period.
The router becomes a gateway for hackers: it is best to turn it off regularly
Using old routers without security updates may pose a risk to users. This is how hackers find their way into your home network. It is therefore generally recommended to turn off your WiFi regularly, for example when you go on vacation.
About the author
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Once your old router is sorted, it doesn't have to end up in hazardous waste. Your old Fritzbox can still be used as a repeater and booster for your home WLAN.
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