What Is Appliance Hacking?
Alvarez Technology Group defines this as an occurrence of a hacker successfully hacking into someone’s smart appliances. Examples of such appliances can be a coffee maker, a refrigerator, a thermostat, a television, etc. When a perpetrator hacks into an appliance, it can cause the device to operate erratically and drive an owner nuts. However, there is a much deeper concern at the heart of this menace. What is that? Keep reading.
How Is This Being Done?
The hackers are utilizing the software program that comes with an appliance; for this example, we are using a smart coffee maker. Initially, the hacking was done for good reasons. The owner of the coffee maker wanted to be able to program it to have coffee ready when he arrived home from work. He was successful at this. The problem is that knowledge such as this ultimately evolved into a tool for perpetrators to use for evil deeds. Therein lies the big problem. Out of this knowledge came the ability to hack into someone’s smart appliance for bad reasons. Unfortunately, this has also been successful.
Why Should People Be Concerned About Appliance Hacking?
Of course, the action itself causes much annoyance for the owner. However, the primary concern is that hackers use this as a means of gaining access to that same person’s personal computer system and smart devices like a tablet or a smartphone. Once that is done, the owner is vulnerable to a bad person’s ability to hack into bank accounts, financial matters, personal information, or any other sensitive details that are stored on electronic devices. There is no need to further explain how bad this can be.
The Problem Explained in Simpler Terms
In case this seems confusing, allow us to explain it in simpler terms. Once a hacker is successful at hacking an appliance or entertainment item, he or she is able to use this information to take it a step further and hack into your personal computer. It may not happen instantly. It could take the perpetrator months to achieve their goals. But be informed; this person typically has the time to wait, especially when the reward is access to all your sensitive information. When he or she is finally successful, it is like they have a key to YOUR kingdom. Then there is no limit to the treachery that can go on.
What Can Be Done About This?
Manufacturers of the various smart devices are getting wise to this. Nowadays, most of the smart products come with the ability of the owner to set up a password that only they know. This should be done immediately upon installing the device into your home or office. It might not be a bad idea to change it once in a while. Make certain it is something YOU are likely to remember, but something that nobody else can figure out.
Where Can You Go for More Information?
People like Mr. Luis Alvarez, CEO of Alvarez Technology Group, have a firm understanding of appliance hacking and also how to prevent it. No matter where your home or office is located, ATG can be your go-to source of information on this subject. Look them up today!
