You know something? I saw this and then wrote my ISP a little email referencing the ArsTechnica article. I didn't expect a response (New York City? Optimum/Comcast? ) but in just one measly hour, I got a very good, no BS response and some additional reassuring info. It's very serious, alright.
On the subject of password protection, be aware that some router password protection schemes aren't entirely sound. Examples would include a common password that can leak and/or a password mechanism that uses an algorithm which can be determined/predicted. @david banner: This thread may interest you.
OK, yes I see. How about if you already have software that scrambles or encrypts your keystrokes? I also intended to lean on Optimum as some of their older hardware is still in extensive circulation. I urged them to be proactive, and it seems, to some extent, they're listening.