When the FBI warned that hackers can use the smart gadgets you have at home “to do a virtual drive-by of your digital life,” it was smart connected gadgets they had in mind. This week’s report into a vulnerability with cheap smart plugs available on Amazon can be added to recent warnings about kitchen gadgets and security cameras.
But there was also a more worrying story this week—one that is much more of a concern. Reports suggested that a home internet router had been remotely attacked, exploiting its factory-set password to hijack an IP address to mask “illicit” activity. In my view, the specific attack alleged in these reports is implausible, but Zak Doffman agrees that a router in such a default state is a very serious risk.
Straight Talking Cyber goes behind the cyber headlines, from the smartphone in your pocket to securing devices at home and at work. We cover it all — from nation-state cyber warfare to script kiddie attacks — telling you what you need to know to stay ahead in a digital era.
