Recent reports have indicated that today’s thieves have turned into cyber-criminals, using high-tech devices such as hacking software and Wi-Fi scanners to gain access into homeowners’ properties. However, this kind of hacking is now threatening the safety of wireless-enabled cars as well, allowing thieves to gain control of Bluetooth devices and other features in newer cars that allow connectivity. This kind of thievery might also include a number of wireless devices, such as smartphones and tablets, as these modern-day criminals are discovering ways to steal passwords and other important data from these devices without the user even being aware of it.
Charlie Miller, a security researcher at Twitter, and Chris Valasek, director of security intelligence at IOActive, a security research company, recently demonstrated car hacks at the DefCon computer security conferences in Las Vegas. The researchers completely disabled a driver’s ability to control a vehicle. No brakes. Distorted steering. All with a click of a button. While the demos were with hybrid cars, researchers warn that dozens of modern vehicles could be susceptible. Hackers and security researchers are moving away from simply trying to break into — or protect — people’s email accounts, stealing credit cards, and other dirty digital deeds. Now they’re exploring vulnerabilities to break through the high-tech , cause car accidents, or in some extreme cases, kill people who use implanted medical devices.”
While there have been few instances of this happening yet, researchers warn that other devices that are used every day, like smartphones, are being hacked in new and subtle ways that make even the most casual user vulnerable.
While homeowners usually have the proper safeguards in place when it comes to their phone’s data—using passcodes and clever passwords that are hard to guess—today’s new cyber thieves are finding new ways to gain access to sensitive data. Some professional hackers have demonstrated how they can work through iOS and Android apps to steal information from a phone while a user is playing a game or accessing the app. Older phones are especially vulnerable to hacking techniques, even when there is a password in place.
While some of these hacks aren’t a concern in day-to-day life quite yet, wireless users need to be aware of the fact that their wireless-enabled devices may be at risk in the near future, and that they should take every precaution to ensure that their property remains secure.
Gary Nash
Author – Gary has been with us for 3 years, but already has expert knowledge of the home security industry. He’s in charge of company research and news. Zach works to ensure that the site provides the most accurate and timely news in the industry.