The bottom line is that we're all rampant users of smart devices.
More than half of Europeans use an internet-connected TV today, a quarter use smartwatches and other wearables, and a fifth are fans of internet-connected gaming devices.
With our embrace of smart devices comes added risk.
The level of risk you're exposed to will depend on the type of device you're opening on Christmas Day.
There's no two-factor authentication enabled by default, which could make it easier for hackers to hijack the device.
There's no device lock enabled, putting the device at risk if lost or stolen.
Device pairing is done vie Bluetooth with no authentication required.
The device shares geolocation automatically, potentially putting your family in physical danger or at risk of a burglary.
There's no security software on the device, meaning it's more exposed to internet-born threats that could steal data or lock down the device.
By exploiting poor vendor design and limited attention to security best practice, malicious hackers can carry out a range of attacks to hijack your devices and access data stored on them.
The device itself could be remotely controlled and conscripted into a botnet of compromised devices designed to launch attacks on others, including DDoS, click fraud, and phishing campaigns.
Threat actors might also look to lock your device with ransomware and demand a fee for you to regain access.
Or they could download adware which floods the device screen with ads, making it virtually unusable.
Only visit legitimate app stores when downloading apps to your device.
Never jailbreak devices as this can expose them to a slew of security risks.
Change the device settings to prevent any unauthorized pairing with other devices.
Disable remote management and Universal Plug and Play where available and ensure the device is registered and receiving updates.
Back up data from your devices in case of ransomware or other threats.
Keep any smart home devices on a separate Wi-Fi network so that attackers can't reach your most sensitive information.
Wherever possible, install security software on the device from a reputable vendor.
This Cyber News was published on www.welivesecurity.com. Publication date: Fri, 22 Dec 2023 19:13:05 +0000