FBI Issues Warning About Smart TVs

The FBI is encouraging us to build a digital defense with our Smart TVs.

The warning is about the Smart TVs that most of us have right now in our homes, or the one that we may purchase for the holidays.

Smart TVs are called that because they connect to the Internet. They allow you to use popular streaming services and apps. Many also have microphones. Just shout at your set that you want to change the channel or turn up the volume and you are good to go – it’s a feature in many of the newer models.

A number of the newer TV’s also have built-in cameras. In some cases, the cameras are used for facial recognition so the TV knows who is watching and can suggest programming appropriately. There are also devices coming to market that allow you to video chat, much like Facetime on our phones.

Beyond the risk that your TV manufacturer and app developers may be listening and watching you, Smart televisions can also be a gateway for hackers to come into your home. A cyber attacker may not be able to access your locked-down computer directly, but it is possible that your unsecured TV can give him or her an easy way in the backdoor through your router.

Hackers can also take control of your unsecured TV. At the low end of the risk spectrum, they can change channels, play with the volume, and show your kids inappropriate videos. In a worst-case scenario, they can turn on your bedroom TV’s camera and microphone and silently cyberstalk you.

TVs and technology are a big part of our lives, and they aren’t going away. So how can you protect your family?

• Know exactly what features your TV has and how to control those features. Do a basic Internet search with your model number and the words “microphone,” “camera,” and “privacy.”
• Don’t depend on the default security settings. Change passwords if you can – and know how to turn off the microphones, cameras, and collection of personal information if possible. If you can’t turn them off, consider whether you are willing to take the risk of buying that model or using that service.
• If you can’t turn off a camera but want to, a simple piece of black tape over the camera eye is a back-to-basics option – most of us have this on our laptops – or should.
• Check the manufacturer’s ability to update your device with security patches. Can they do this? Have they done it in the past?
• Check the privacy policy for the TV manufacturer and the streaming services you use. Confirm what data they collect, how they store that data, and what they do with it.

As always, if you have been victimized by a cyber fraud, be sure to report it to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center at www.IC3.gov or call your local FBI office.