FBI Warns About Danger In The Internet Of Things

The Internet of Things (IoT) has become an integral part of our daily lives, with devices such as home thermostats, security systems, medical devices, refrigerators, televisions, smart televisions, and even toys connected to the internet. Our homes are now filled with these devices, including popular virtual assistants like Alexa and Siri. However, this increased connectivity comes with a significant risk - vulnerability to hacking.

One device that people often take for granted is their smoke detector. Modern smoke detectors can send data to our phones or manufacturers through our router, making them susceptible to being hacked. In recent years, the sex toy industry has also jumped on the bandwagon, creating devices that can be controlled remotely through Bluetooth or Wi-Fi technology. While this may seem like a convenient feature, it also opens up new avenues for hackers to exploit.

In 2017, Italian researcher Giovanni Mellini made headlines by hacking into and taking control of a sex toy described as "the world's first teledildonic butt plug." This incident highlights the potential dangers of hacking into IoT devices. Cybercriminals can use these devices to enlist them in botnets, distribute malware, access home computers or cell phones for identity theft, or implant malware on them.

The FBI has long warned consumers about the risks associated with hacking IoT devices. To protect yourself, there are some basic steps you can take:

• Have a secure router.
• Change the default password on your router as soon as possible.
• Set up a guest network exclusively for your IoT devices to keep sensitive information safe from hacking.
• Regularly check for software updates and install them promptly.
• Use unique passwords for each of your IoT devices and enable dual-factor authentication whenever possible.

Additionally, the FBI has identified 13 outdated routers that are no longer supported by manufacturers with security updates. These routers are being exploited by cybercriminals to gain access to computers and other devices, install malware, and make them part of botnets.

To stay safe, you should:

• Check your router's manufacturer website for the latest security updates.
• Replace end-of-life routers with newer, more secure ones.
• Disable remote management settings and use strong passwords.
• Configure network firewalls to block unauthorized traffic.
• Install the latest security patches as soon as they become available.
• Use your router's whitelisting capabilities to prevent malicious connections.

By taking these steps, you can significantly reduce the risk of being hacked and protect yourself against the dangers of IoT devices. Remember, cybersecurity is everyone's responsibility - stay vigilant and take control of your online safety today!