Internet

This is how they attack and control your TV without you knowing it, but you can avoid it

How can they attack a Smart TV

if you have one internet connected tv, is one more device that can be attacked by hackers. It is true that it is not something that is as common as having viruses on the computer or mobile, but it can happen. Knowing what the risks are is essential to avoid having problems.

Take advantage of security flaws

A first factor to take into account is the vulnerabilities that may be at the firmware level. They are flaws that an attacker can exploit to steal information, sneak malware or carry out any other attack. There are known vulnerabilities and if left unpatched it can be a major security risk.

What to do to avoid this? Without a doubt, the best thing is to have the television updated. Whenever you see that a firmware update is available, install it. Also any program you have installed. It’s the same thing you should do on any other device connected to the network.

Malicious programs

They can also end up using fake applications, with malicious software. You can install programs on a Smart TV, in order to have certain characteristics and greater usability. However keep in mind that they can be used to introduce viruses. It is the same as it can happen on a computer or mobile.

What you should do in this case is always check very well what you are installing. Be careful where you download apps from and check everything properly. This way you will only have legitimate, reliable and pre-reviewed software.

Unprotected Wi-Fi networks

Another method they can use is to exploit an unprotected Wi-Fi network. An attacker could gain access to devices that are connected to that wireless network. If you do not have protection or it is very weak, problems may appear that put security and privacy at risk.

Ideally, you should always protect your Wi-Fi network. Give it a good password, make it strong and complex. Never leave the one that comes from the factory, nor put a password that is weak and easy to find out. That will protect your devices, also the television.

Social engineering

Here hackers are going to use different techniques to scam. They are going to make you believe that you must enter certain data, click on a link or download something. It is what is known as social engineering and we can name Phishing attacks as the best example of what can happen.

To be protected, it is best that you maintain common sense. Don’t make mistakes, only install software from trusted sites, and don’t click on links that might be fraudulent. But especially when it comes to television, in many cases these scams are by telephone, indicating that you have to solve a problem in case you have contracted a pay TV plan. Be careful with that and don’t fall into the trap.

Using modified hardware

One last method that they can use to attack your Smart TV and control it is through some kind of hardware that they have previously modified. For example, a simple flash drive that you plug in to watch a movie or series. If you have any viruses, if you have malicious software that allows remote control, it could be a problem.

Always check any device you are going to connect to the television. Avoid connecting devices that could be a danger, be it a flash drive, computer or any other device you have.

In short, as you can see, they can infect your Smart TV through different techniques. It is essential that you take action and do not make mistakes. For example, if you are going to use VPN to unblock content on TV, make sure you are using a legitimate program and not a fraud.

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