Soon after the Trump administration launched its war on Iran, I called up Reed Blakemore, director of research and programs at the Atlantic Council Global Energy Center, to talk about the consequences. While oil and gas prices were already on the rise, there was still more hope then that the impact of the conflict might be short-lived. At the end of our conversation, Blakemore said plainly: “Let’s have a call again [next week] … We’ll have a much clearer picture of what the conflict is going to look like and what the story really is going to be for energy moving forward.”
Technology
How the spiraling Iran conflict could affect data centers and electricity costs
Energy infrastructure has become a key leverage point in the unfolding war
It’s a week later and the conflict has only escalated since the US and Israel launched strikes against Iran, killing Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Energy infrastructure has become a key leverage point in the unfolding war, with Israel hitting Iranian fuel depots and Iran targeting Gulf neighbors’ oil and gas infrastructure in its own strikes. Iran’s paramilitary Revolutionary Guard threatened on Tuesday not to “not allow the export of even a single liter of oil from the region to the hostile side and its partners until further notice.” Iran has reportedly also started to lay mines in the strategic Strait of Hormuz, through which one-fifth of global petroleum consumption and liquefied natural gas (LNG) trade used to move.
I talked to Blakemore again today about what Iran’s continued chokehold on the Strait of Hormuz means for energy costs and US tech companies’ rush to build out energy-hungry AI data centers.
This interview has been edited for length and clarity.
What’s your outlook now on how the conflict is likely to affect oil and gasoline prices?
Reed Blakemore: The fundamental issue right now, in terms of the energy implications of the conflict, is how the market is reacting to the uncertainty around safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz.
At the outset of the conflict when we saw insurance premiums going up for these ships, we were largely talking about it in the context of, Hey, it’s just gotten much more expensive for a ship to traverse the Gulf and therefore they’re staying out.
We’ve moved from that to actual concerns around the security of passing through the straits in the first place, so this is no longer an insurance cost issue as much as it is a safety and security issue.
We have virtually no traffic passing through the Strait of Hormuz. A lot of countries are beginning to shut in production. So there’s already this ripple effect emerging purely because the market and basically tankers are fundamentally concerned about whether or not they will be able to safely pass through the strait.
“There’s only so much that US energy dominance can do to shield US consumers”
The other feature that I think we’ve seen the market react strongly to in the past several days is a sense of how long this conflict is going to last. And I think you can look to the comments from the president in the last 72 hours and the market’s reaction as a major piece of evidence to that end. Moving into the weekend where the campaign had clearly escalated, the uncertainty around how open the Strait of Hormuz would or wouldn’t be was beginning to reach a fever pitch. The response from markets when they opened in Asia on Sunday going past $100 a barrel to nearly $120 a barrel is really a function of the market not having a sense that this would be over anytime soon. That pullback that we saw over the course of yesterday was in response to the president saying fundamentally that Hey, we have an end in sight to this conflict.
The United States is a major oil producer. I think the strategy of US energy dominance played a significant role in terms of shielding US consumers from the initial market consequences of the decision to go to war with Iran. The price increases we’ve seen thus far would have been much more responsive to the market volatility. That has bought the administration a little bit of time as it relates to how long until we see the gasoline prices really begin to pick up steam domestically. But as this conflict persists and the volatility in the market continues, we will begin to see upward pressure on gasoline prices, regrettably, over time.
There’s only so much that US energy dominance can do to shield US consumers from what is a globally traded market in terms of oil. Because the United States is a major domestic oil producer, it has the ability to put some downward pressure on its own gasoline prices.
But because via its oil exports it participates in a global market, it has that exposure to global oil market volatility.
Can we expect electricity prices to go up also? Why?
For the United States, the gas story is a little bit better, but not immune from the global market as well. Natural gas is largely regionally traded within the United States. The US is a major producer of natural gas for domestic consumption in a way that further insulates it. That makes the case of the United States much different than the gas price sensitivity we’re seeing in Europe or in Japan or other parts of East Asia.
The problem is similar to the oil story because the United States is a major LNG exporter. As natural gas prices increase elsewhere, LNG exporters will be incentivized to export more gas because that’s where the arbitrage opportunity is, and that will create the upward price pressure domestically in the United States.
What risks does that pose to tech companies and this push to build out more AI data centers and related energy infrastructure?
In the United States, the majority of the data center buildout has begun to be powered by natural gas. We’re not going to see electricity prices reach a crisis point in the United States in the short term because of this conflict. The time horizon that we’re talking about with gas and therefore electricity prices is likely in the time horizon of months rather than weeks you’d expect with oil.
However, the longer this conflict lasts and the more tightness we see in the global gas market — that will eventually permeate the United States and create that upward pressure on gas prices in a way which then affects electricity prices and then that brings the data center question into play.
I think the unique thing is it doesn’t necessarily affect the ability of data centers to purchase energy. Electricity costs are a relatively marginal proportion of the cost of building and operating a data center. What it does do is it only further inflames the energy affordability challenges that are currently deteriorating social license in the country for data centers. So the impact on electricity prices likely won’t directly harm data center buildout. The ancillary affordability challenges it will create will further entrench popular discontent with data center buildout, because data centers are simply making consumer electricity bills much more expensive.
Follow topics and authors from this story to see more like this in your personalized homepage feed and to receive email updates.
Fox has announced that it’s acquiring Roku outright, in a deal that values the streaming company at $22 billion.
The deal will see Fox’s TV networks and Tubi streamer combine with Roku’s network of streaming devices, smart TV software, and The Roku Channel. The companies say in a press release that by combining they’ll become the third-largest player in the US TV industry by viewing share.
It doesn’t sound like the plan is to build Roku and Fox into a walled ecosystem. Roku founder and CEO Anthony Wood, who will stay on in the company and join Fox’s board of directors, said in an investor call that Roku “will continue to operate as an open, partner-friendly platform supporting the entire streaming ecosystem.” As for Fox, the press release says the companies are “committed” to the “continued ubiquitous distribution” of Fox’s own content.
”This is a defining moment for Fox, and a natural extension of the deliberate and focused strategy we have been executing for nearly a decade,” Fox CEO Lachlan Murdoch said in a statement. “Today, we take the next step: bringing together the most valuable live content portfolio in video consumption with the preeminent streaming platform through which America watches it.”
“Over the past two decades, we’ve built Roku into the leading TV streaming platform, reaching more than 100 million households globally and reshaping how people discover and enjoy entertainment,” said Roku CEO Wood. “I’m incredibly proud of what our team has built, and the combination with Fox is an extraordinary opportunity to accelerate our vision, scale faster and innovate more aggressively for viewers, partners and advertisers.”
The deal is expected to close in the first half of 2027, but remains subject to regulatory approval, which in the current climate seems unlikely to pose a problem in the US.
Update, June 15th: Added Anthony Wood quote from the investor call.
Last year, the FBI opened a Cyber Range in Huntsville, Alabama, for simulating cyberattacks. Think of it sort of like the famous Hogan’s Alley, but for modern digital crime training. It’s a massive 22,000 square-foot replica of an entire town, complete with a convenience store, gas station, hospital, and even fully furnished houses.
It’s a training facility where the bureau can recreate real-world scenarios for training and research purposes. All of the various buildings and facilities are hooked up the way they would be in a real town. There’s even a small data center with over 200 servers that can be hacked, infected with malware, and studied. But, importantly, all of the systems in the fake town are cut off from the outside world, which means there’s no danger of any malicious code or anything from escaping containment.
Students practice performing forensic investigations on car entertainment systems, hospital computer networks, and corporate security systems. They can see how various cyberattacks might affect power grids or spread through home networks.
While the facility opened last year, the FBI only shared a video this week, giving the public its first glimpse inside.
NEWYou can now listen to Fox News articles!
Your Wi-Fi router may be the least glamorous gadget in your home. It sits on a shelf, blinks in the corner and only gets attention when Netflix freezes. However, that little box controls a lot more than you may think.
The FBI and Justice Department say a Russian military intelligence hacking group abused vulnerable small office and home office routers to help run an espionage operation. The group is known as APT28, Fancy Bear and Forest Blizzard. It has been linked to Russia’s GRU military intelligence agency.
The hackers changed router settings so internet requests could flow through servers they controlled. That gave them a way to watch for valuable targets, redirect traffic and steal sensitive login information. The Justice Department and FBI say they disrupted the U.S. portion of the network in April. That is good news. Still, law enforcement cannot walk into your house, update your router or change the password printed on an old sticker. That part is on you.
Sign up for my FREE CyberGuy Report
- Get my best tech tips, urgent security alerts and exclusive deals delivered straight to your inbox.
- For simple, real-world ways to spot scams early and stay protected, visit CyberGuy.com – trusted by millions who watch CyberGuy on TV daily.
- Plus, you’ll get instant access to my Ultimate Scam Survival Guide free when you join.
FBI WARNS OF HACKERS EXPLOITING OUTDATED ROUTERS. CHECK YOURS NOW
Wires are connected to a router to maintain internet connectivity. (Wolf Von Dewitz/Picture Alliance via Getty Images)
How this router attack worked
This attack focused on SOHO routers. That stands for small office and home office routers. In other words, these are the kinds of devices used by small businesses, remote workers and some homes. The Justice Department says the hackers used weaknesses in older routers to change DNS settings.
DNS is like the address book for the internet. When you type a website name, DNS helps your device find the right online destination. If hackers control that address book, they can send certain requests through their own servers. That can let them spot valuable targets and try to steal passwords, authentication tokens, emails or browsing data.
That to me is scary because the victim may not see anything obvious. Your laptop may still connect. Your phone may still browse. Your router may still look normal. Meanwhile, the traffic can be quietly routed through a bad path.
Why old routers can become a weak spot
Routers age like any other device. The problem is that many people keep them for years after the manufacturer stops supporting them. That can leave known security holes sitting open.
Many people also never change the router’s admin username and password. That admin login is different from your Wi-Fi password. It controls the router itself. If that login still uses a default password, a hacker has a much easier path inside.
Think of it this way. You may have strong passwords on your bank account, email and phone. But if your router is outdated and poorly protected, your network still has a soft spot.
DON’T USE YOUR HOME WI-FI BEFORE FIXING CERTAIN SECURITY RISKS
A router’s admin settings can become a security weak spot when firmware is outdated or default passwords are never changed. (TP-Link)
Which routers were targeted?
The FBI specifically referred to the TP-Link WR841N in its warning. The UK National Cyber Security Centre also listed other TP-Link models targeted by APT28. The agency says the list may not be complete.
Here are the routers named in the advisory:
- TP-Link LTE Wireless N Router MR6400
- TP-Link Wireless Dual Band Gigabit Router Archer C5
- TP-Link Wireless Dual Band Gigabit Router Archer C7
- TP-Link Wireless Dual Band Gigabit Router WDR3600
- TP-Link Wireless Dual Band Gigabit Router WDR4300
- TP-Link Wireless Dual Band Router WDR3500
- TP-Link Wireless Lite N Router WR740N
- TP-Link Wireless Lite N Router WR740N/WR741ND
- TP-Link Wireless Lite N Router WR749N
- TP-Link Wireless N 3G/4G Router MR3420
- TP-Link Wireless N Access Point WA801ND
- TP-Link Wireless N Access Point WA901ND
- TP-Link Wireless N Gigabit Router WR1043ND
- TP-Link Wireless N Gigabit Router WR1045ND
- TP-Link Wireless N Router WR840N
- TP-Link Wireless N Router WR841HP
- TP-Link Wireless N Router WR841N
- TP-Link Wireless N Router WR841N/WR841ND
- TP-Link Wireless N Router WR842N
- TP-Link Wireless N Router WR842ND
- TP-Link Wireless N Router WR845N
- TP-Link Wireless N Router WR941ND
- TP-Link Wireless N Router WR945N
If you see your model on this list, take it seriously. Many of these routers are older. Some may no longer get normal security support. We reached out to TP-Link for comments, but did not hear back before our deadline.
What TP-Link says about the router warnings
A spokesperson from TP-Link Systems Inc. told CyberGuy the company is aware of recent public reporting involving legacy consumer routers, including TP-Link models listed in those reports. The company said the referenced legacy router models reached End of Service and Life status several years ago.
“While these products are outside our standard maintenance lifecycle, TP-Link has developed security updates for select legacy models where technically feasible,” the spokesperson said.
The spokesperson also urged customers using legacy or end-of-service devices to upgrade to currently supported hardware that receives regular security updates.
“As immediate precautions, users should update to the latest available firmware, disable remote management, and restrict device access to trusted internal networks only,” the spokesperson said.
TP-Link added that the security of its customers is its highest priority and said detailed mitigation guidance, along with a list of identified affected legacy products, is available on its official security advisory page.
What this means for you
Most people do not think about their router until the Wi-Fi drops. But your router sits between your devices and the internet. That gives it a powerful position in your home or small business. If a hacker changes the router’s settings, every connected device can feel the impact. That includes your laptop, smartphone, tablet, smart TV and work computer.
This is especially important if you work from home. A weak router can create a risk for your personal accounts and your workplace accounts. The good news is that you do not need to be a cybersecurity expert to lower the risk. You just need to stop treating your router like a forgotten appliance.
ETHERNET VS WI-FI SECURITY COMPARISON REVEALS SURPRISING RESULTS FOR HOME USERS SEEKING PROTECTION
Security agencies say replacing unsupported routers is one of the most important steps users can take after this kind of attack. (TP-Link)
How to protect your router from hackers
The good news is that a few simple router checks can reduce your risk and help keep hackers from quietly changing how your internet traffic moves.
1) Check your router model
Look at the label on your router. You can usually find the model number on the bottom or back of the device. If it matches one of the listed models, check the manufacturer’s support page for firmware updates. If the device is no longer supported, replace it. Do not keep an end-of-life router because it “still works.” A router can still provide Wi-Fi while leaving your network exposed.
2) Update your router firmware
Firmware is the software that runs your router. Updates often fix security problems. Open your router’s app or log in to its admin page. Look for a firmware update section. Turn on automatic updates if your router offers that option. If it does not, set a reminder to check for updates regularly.
3) Change the router admin password
Your router has an admin login. This is separate from your Wi-Fi network password. Change the default admin username and password. Use a long, unique password that you do not use anywhere else. A password manager can help you create and store a strong router password so you do not have to remember it. Also, change your Wi-Fi password if you have shared it widely or kept it for years. Check out the best expert-reviewed password managers of 2026 at Cyberguy.com
4) Disable remote management
Most people do not need to manage a home router from outside the house. Remote management can give attackers another way to reach your router. Log in to your router settings and turn it off unless you truly need it. The wording may vary by brand. Look for “remote management,” “remote access” or “WAN access.”
5) Reboot your router
A reboot will not fix every router problem. However, security agencies often recommend restarting routers as part of basic home network hygiene. Unplug your router, wait about 30 seconds and plug it back in. This can help clear some temporary malicious activity. Still, it does not replace updates, stronger passwords or replacing an outdated device.
6) Watch browser certificate warnings
Do not click through browser warnings that say a site certificate is invalid or unsafe. Those warnings can appear when something is interfering with a secure connection. In this kind of attack, that warning could be a major red flag. Close the page instead. Then check the site by typing the address yourself on a trusted network.
7) Use a VPN for sensitive work
If you handle work files or sensitive accounts from home, use your company-approved VPN. A VPN can help protect traffic when you connect to workplace systems. It can also reduce exposure when you use networks you do not fully control. Still, a VPN isn’t a free pass to ignore router updates. You need safer habits and safer hardware. For the best VPN software, see my expert review of the best VPNs for browsing the web privately on your Windows, Mac, Android & iOS devices at Cyberguy.com
8) Use strong antivirus software
Strong antivirus software can help protect your devices if a bad link, a fake login page or a malicious download reaches you. It will not fix a vulnerable router, but it can add another layer of protection for your computer and phone. Look for security software that can detect malware, warn you about phishing sites and help block suspicious activity before it causes damage. Get my picks for the best 2026 antivirus protection winners for your Windows, Mac, Android & iOS devices at Cyberguy.com
9) Consider identity theft protection
If hackers steal your login details, the damage can spread beyond your Wi-Fi network. Identity theft protection can help monitor for signs that your personal information is being misused. It may alert you to suspicious activity involving your credit, accounts or personal data so you can act faster. See my tips and best picks on Best Identity Theft Protection at Cyberguy.com
10) Use a data removal service
A data removal service can help reduce the amount of personal information about you that is available online. That is important because scammers often combine stolen logins with exposed details from data broker sites. Removing your information from those sites can make it harder for criminals to build a fuller profile of you or your family. Check out my top picks for data removal services and get a free scan to find out if your personal information is already out on the web by visiting Cyberguy.com
11) Replace outdated routers
If your router no longer receives security updates, replace it. That may feel annoying. I get it. Nobody gets excited about buying a router the way they might get excited about a new phone. But your router protects everything connected to it. Spending money on a supported device can be cheaper than cleaning up stolen passwords later.
Kurt’s key takeaways
This router warning should make every home and small business owner pause for a minute. The scariest part is how ordinary the target is. We are talking about routers that may be sitting in homes, home offices and small businesses right now. The FBI and its partners disrupted part of the Russian operation. However, that does not magically secure old routers still sitting on shelves. So check your model. Update the firmware. Change the admin password. Turn off remote management. Replace the router if it no longer gets updates. Your router may be boring. But if it gets hijacked, it can become one of the most important security problems in your home.
Would you know how old your router is right now, or is it one of those devices you have not touched since the day it was installed? Let us know by writing to us at Cyberguy.com
CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE FOX NEWS APP
Sign up for my FREE CyberGuy Report
- Get my best tech tips, urgent security alerts and exclusive deals delivered straight to your inbox.
- For simple, real-world ways to spot scams early and stay protected, visit CyberGuy.com – trusted by millions who watch CyberGuy on TV daily.
- Plus, you’ll get instant access to my Ultimate Scam Survival Guide free when you join.
Copyright 2026 CyberGuy.com. All rights reserved.
-
Rhode Island2 minutes agoYour 2026 Rhode Island Summer Bucket List – Rhode Island Monthly
-
South-Carolina4 minutes agoAnother S.C. GOP Runoff Poll Shows Alan Wilson in the Lead – FITSNews
-
South Dakota10 minutes agoMonday Forecast: Red Flag Warning for SW South Dakota and parts of NE Wyoming
-
Tennessee17 minutes agoSee which Tennessee companies are asking for $3B in tariff refunds
-
Texas20 minutes agoBig 12 pursuing legal action against Texas Tech, Texas attorney general over Brendan Sorsby
-
Utah25 minutes ago
Utah Jazz will match any offer sheet Walker Kessler …
-
Vermont32 minutes agoAfter years of stifling heat, Vermont invests nearly $10.5 million in prison air conditioning – VTDigger
-
Washington35 minutes agoSouthwest Washington married couple retired from U.S. military reflect on what it means to be an American
