Internet Industry Association

ROUND TABLE CONTRIBUTE TO A SELF-REGULATORY

SECURITY CODE FOR INTERNET ROUTERS

Background:
A industry-based self regulatory code covering eSecurity for isps is due to come into operation by December this year. Pending agreement with all parties this will ensure that there is a clear cut and user-friendly approach to alerting users that may have their systems affected by malware.

An emerging source of botnets concerns malware capable of directly infecting home routers and cable/DSL modems. See http://apcmag.com/new-worm-can-infect-home-modemrouters.htm

Also many wireless home networks are vulnerable to local attacks due to running unprotected or default passwords that can be exploited by mischievous users nearby.

Many users can avoid the issue provided they configure their systems with less guessable logins and passwords. 

However this may also be managed by issuing new routers with pre-configured with individualized log-ins at the outset, either at the distributor level or even via isp, where subscription/router packages are sold as together.

Proposed Workshop
The IIA is convening the leading router distributors and isps to explore the merits of a voluntary protocol that can reduce the extent of router-based botnets through stronger initial settings.

There are also obvious marketing advantages involved through associating your hardware or hardware supply with a strengthened net router as part of a mainstream consumer education campaign.

Date:  Tuesday 14th July 2009
Time: 2.00pm - 4.00pm
Venue: Level 2, Pier 8/9 23 Hickson Road       
          Millers Point, Sydney
RSVP: emelia@iia.net.au or (02) 62326900