http://tech.slashdot.org/story/15/04/09/2226228/has-google-indexed-your-backup-driveI'm surprised the article doesn't speculate further on why (anonymous) FTP gets enabled on users' routers. I can think of some possibilities:
1. The router has UPnP enabled (many do by default) and the installer used to initially set up the cloud backup device uses that to reconfigure the router. Either covertly, or by leaving a configuration check box opted-in by default, and the user doesn't understand the implications. I see no use case for UPnP: it's a serious security risk for consumers, and is of no use in corporate environments. Everyone should disable it if it's available on their devices.
2. By design, the router may automatically treat any USB hard drive attached directly to it as a storage device that is meant to be a public FTP site (for file sharing with your friends etc.)
Regards. Al
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