[ubuntu-uk] IRC security mention in Ubuntu Weekly News 27

[alan c]

I  have only used IRC a few times, and have only a vague idea of the 
issues around it. I noyice in UWN 27 that
=====
If you are using IRC to connect to any of the Ubuntu IRC channels, the 
IRC Operator's Team would like to inform you that to make your 
connection secure you should use port 8001 when connecting to any of 
the Freenode servers. There has been a recent surge in people 
exploiting vulnerable routers of IRC users. Using port 8001 will 
prevent you from being disconnected from one of these DCC attacks. It 
is also recommended that you download and install the latest firmware 
for your router. Do note that all these attacks do is disconnect you 
from the IRC server. So to avoid being banned from a channel due to 
join and part flooding, fix your settings now.
=====

I presume the port used is fairy easy to examine by each user, however 
the comment about router firmware suggests more complications for 
users who are not really very technically experienced (I include 
myself here).

I trust that this list can keep patience in mind and as ever be 
patient with handholding (me) when  time is available to sort out this 
issue?
tia
-- 
alan cocks
Kubuntu user#10391