**Audio Devices Using Google's Fast Pair Tech Vulnerable to Hacks**
Think twice before connecting those sleek new headphones or earbuds to your phone - a group of researchers has discovered a vulnerability in the Bluetooth pairing technology used by many audio devices.
The tech in question is Google's Fast Pair system, which allows compatible devices to connect quickly and easily with just one tap. However, as reported by Wired, researchers at KU Leuven University in Belgium have found that the Bluetooth protocols used are vulnerable to being remotely hacked.
**Remote Hacking: A Threat to Your Audio Devices**
Once a hacker gains access to your audio device through this vulnerability, they could do more than just change volume levels. They could also listen to what the microphones are picking up - essentially, eavesdropping on you without you even realizing it.
Worse still, if the device supports Google's Find Hub tracking network feature, the location of your audio device could be monitored remotely. This is a disturbing possibility for anyone who values their personal security and privacy.
**The WhisperPair Vulnerability**
The researchers have dubbed this collection of techniques the "WhisperPair" vulnerability, which seems like a far too friendly name for something so nefarious. According to the team, there isn't just one hack - but rather a range of different methods that can be employed by hackers.
**Google's Response and What You Can Do**
Fortunately, the researchers passed on their discovery to Google straight away, and the tech giant has since classified the issue as critical (CVE-2025-36911). The Belgian team agreed on a 150-day disclosure window with Google, during which time they worked together to release security patches.
However, it's worth noting that any fix requires the end user to update the firmware on their audio devices. And here's the bad news: Wired received word from the researchers that they discovered a bypass for the Find Hub fix, and there's still no word on a full solution yet.
**What Can You Do to Protect Yourself?**
If you think your headset or speaker system could be affected by this vulnerability, it's time to take action. Check with your vendor immediately to see if they have rolled out any security patches - the more people who request a fix from vendors, the quicker they'll be implemented.
Stay vigilant and keep yourself up-to-date on the latest news and deals in tech, as picked by our team at PC Gamer:
- Best Overall: Razer BlackShark V3
- Best Budget: Corsair HS55 Stereo
- Best Wired: HyperX Cloud Alpha
- Best Mid-Range Wireless: Turtle Beach Stealth 600 Gen 3
- Best Audiophile: Beyerdynamic MMX 330 Pro
- Best Wireless Audiophile: Audeze Maxwell
- Best for Streaming: Audio-Technica ATH-M50xSTS StreamSet
- Best Earbuds: Steelseries Arctis GameBuds
Stay safe, and stay informed!