Version 127: “Over 9,000 Asus routers infiltrated by a relentless botnet and an enduring SSH backdoor resistant to firmware fixes”

Major Cybersecurity Breach: Over 9,000 ASUS Routers Compromised by Botnet Attack

In a troubling development for home network security, cybersecurity experts have identified that more than 9,000 ASUS routers have fallen prey to a sophisticated botnet attack named “AyySSHush.” This alarming incident, brought to light by the cybersecurity firm GreyNoise in March 2025, capitalizes on critical vulnerabilities linked to authentication processes within these devices.

The nature of this attack is particularly concerning due to its utilization of legitimate features found in the ASUS routers. It effectively creates a persistent SSH backdoor that is embedded within the router’s non-volatile memory (NVRAM). This means that even when users attempt to resolve the issue through standard firmware updates or device reboots, the backdoor remains intact, rendering conventional remediation techniques ineffective.

As the frequency and complexity of cyberattacks continue to escalate, this incident serves as a stark reminder of the need for strong cybersecurity practices, including regular updates and awareness of potential vulnerabilities in network equipment. Home users and businesses alike should take immediate action to secure their devices to mitigate any risks associated with these kinds of threats. Staying informed and vigilant is essential in our increasingly interconnected world.

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One Comment

  1. Thank you for bringing this critical security issue to light. The persistence of the SSH backdoor embedded in ASUS routers even after firmware updates is indeed concerning. In such cases, here are some steps you can take:

    • Perform a Full Reset: Try performing a factory reset on your ASUS router. Be aware that certain persistent backdoors stored in NVRAM may survive this process, but it’s worth attempting.
    • Reflash with Custom Firmware: If standard firmware updates are ineffective, consider installing custom firmware such as ASUSwrt-Merlin or DD-WRT, which might offer enhanced security features and mitigation options.
    • Disable SSH Access: If SSH is not essential for your use case, disable it through the router’s web interface to reduce attack surface.
    • Monitor Network Traffic: Use network monitoring tools to identify any unusual outbound connections that could indicate compromise.
    • Stay Informed: Keep an eye on vulnerability reports and firmware updates from ASUS. In some cases, security patches specifically address these stealth backdoors.
    • Consider Replacing Devices: Given the robustness of the backdoor, if vulnerabilities persist, replacing affected routers with newer models that have stronger security measures might be the safest course.

    Maintaining regular updates, strong passwords, and vigilant monitoring are key

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