Is it safe to give a stranger a cfe.bin backup file?

[balloonshark]

I was asked by a random stranger on another forum if I could share my cfe.bin file from an old router which I installed dd-wrt. I'm not that familiar with dd-wrt. They said they couldn't find the file online and needed it so they didn't have to throw away the router. Is it safe to share this file?

 

[sdifox]

https://wiki.dd-wrt.com/wiki/index.php/CFE_backup

 

[balloonshark]

https://wiki.dd-wrt.com/wiki/index.php/CFE_backup

So I can assume that the fact there is a collection of these .bin files that my cfe.bin isn't unique to my router correct? I was just worried about someone getting the file and it would make their router identify as mine which would be bad if they committed a crime.

 

[sdifox]

So I can assume that the fact there is a collection of these .bin files that my cfe.bin isn't unique to my router correct? I was just worried about someone getting the file and it would make their router identify as mine which would be bad if they committed a crime.

Not particularly. It's just bootloader. Just send that random guy to that page lol

 

[balloonshark]

Not particularly. It's just bootloader. Just send that random guy to that page lol

Thanks! When he asked for the file he said he could no longer find the .bin file. I guess he saw that I was buying that particular router and sent me a message. I'm relieved to hear it is safe to to share.

 

[VirtualLarry]

I think, on some routers, the CFE (bootloader) MAY contain your router's MAC address. Or on some routers, it may be in an EEPROM somewhere too, separate.

I would scan the .cfe file with a binary / hex editor, and change your MAC in that file to something else, before sending it to them.

 

[balloonshark]

I think, on some routers, the CFE (bootloader) MAY contain your router's MAC address. Or on some routers, it may be in an EEPROM somewhere too, separate.

I would scan the .cfe file with a binary / hex editor, and change your MAC in that file to something else, before sending it to them.

Damn! It's too late and it does contain my mac address and serial number. I guess I'll send them a message and hope they are honest.

 

[sdifox]

Damn! It's too late and it does contain my mac address. I guess I'll send them a message and hope they are honest.

They have to edit it to match hardware I think. Which router is it?

Mac spoofing is built into routers so I wouldn't worry about liability.

 

[balloonshark]

They have to edit it to match hardware I think. Which router is it?

Mac spoofing is built into routers so I wouldn't worry about liability.

It's a Trendnet TEW-811DRU. I think it was 10$ after rebate. They ran hot so I opened it up and enlarged the vent holes. I also added two eternal antennas. It worked great for my needs but not long after I found a deal on a nighthawk r6700. The Trendnet is now a backup for my backup router.

 

[sdifox]

It's a Trendnet TEW-811DRU. I think it was 10$ after rebate. They ran hot so I opened it up and enlarged the vent holes. I also added two eternal antennas. It worked great for my needs but not long after I found a deal on a nighthawk r6700. The Trendnet is now a backup for my backup router.

Then you have nothing to worry about. Safest wifi router is the one that is not plugged in.