Outdated Technology at Home Puts the Company at Risk
In November 2025, security experts discovered Operation WrtHug, a large-scale cyber-espionage campaign that compromised more than 50,000 ASUS routers worldwide. Attributed to a China-linked threat actor, the operation transforms small-office/home-office (SOHO) routers into “operational relay boxes,” creating a stealth proxy network for global surveillance and network attacks.
The campaign targets ASUS WRT routers, specifically end-of-life (EOL) models that no longer receive security updates. Attackers exploit multiple known flaws to open a persistent backdoor into the devices.
Operation WrtHug is hardly unique. Hackers often target older, unpatched hardware and software such as home routers, smart devices, and PCs. These threats not only put individuals at risk but also create easy entry points for hackers to access company networks when employees work from home. Unsecured home devices can host malware that can spread across the network or steal sensitive company data.
Outdated technology also hinders productivity. Older systems struggle with modern software, causing slowdowns, data loss, and system crashes. Employees working from home face constant issues and slow performance, reducing work quality and efficiency.
If your home office technology is extremely outdated, you may have no choice but to purchase new equipment. However, there are steps you can take to improve security and performance without buying the latest gear.
Keep firmware up to date. Firmware is a type of software permanently embedded in hardware devices that provides low-level instructions for performing basic functions. Keeping the firmware in routers and other devices up to date reduces the risk that a hacker can exploit a known vulnerability.
Turn on automatic software updates. Most modern devices and operating systems allow you to update software automatically, so you do not have to remember to do it manually. Turn on that feature but also check from time to time to ensure that there are no pending updates that did not install successfully.
Uninstall unused and outdated applications. The more applications you have on your device, the greater the chance that a hacker will be able to exploit a vulnerability. Cull down your apps to the ones you use regularly and keep those updated. If you buy a new device, be sure to remove any unwanted “bloatware” that comes with the system.
Follow security best practices. Commonsense measures go a long way toward boosting security. Change default passwords on routers and other devices. Use a strong, unique password for each device, system and app, and use multifactor authentication wherever possible. Install robust security tools.