Smart televisions have a wide range of interesting features, such as streaming apps, internet access, and built-in cameras and microphones. However, smart TVs can pose a risk because of their constant connection to the internet. Hackers can gain access to your smart TV, control it and even change certain settings using built-in cameras and microphones.
A smart and capable hacker can spy on your conversations and search history through your smart TV or they could use that access to find a backdoor into your router and other connected devices.
Although scary, there are measures you can take to continue using your smart TV comfortably.
Smart TVs are internet-connected devices that can provide a convenient and immersive entertainment experience. However, they can also be vulnerable to hackers who can use them to spy on you. Here are some tips to prevent hackers from using your smart TV to spy on you:
1. Update your smart TV’s firmware
Keeping your smart TV’s firmware updated is crucial in preventing hackers from exploiting vulnerabilities in older versions of the software. Check for updates regularly and install them as soon as they become available.
2. Disable unnecessary features
Smart TVs often come with features that you may not need or use, such as voice recognition, webcam, or screen mirroring. These features can be exploited by hackers to spy on you, so it’s best to disable them unless you have a specific need for them.
3. Use a strong password
If your smart TV has a password option, make sure to use a strong and unique password. Avoid using default passwords, as these are easily guessable and can leave your smart TV vulnerable to attacks.
4. Secure your home network
Your smart TV is connected to your home network, so it’s important to secure your network with a strong and unique password. Use WPA2 encryption and change the default network name and password to prevent unauthorized access.
5. Use a Virtual Private Network (VPN)
A VPN can encrypt your internet traffic and protect your online privacy, including when you’re using your smart TV to stream content. Consider using a reputable VPN service to add an extra layer of security.
MUST READ: How to Use your Phone as a Tv Remote Control
6. Be cautious of suspicious links
Don’t click on suspicious links or download apps from untrusted sources on your smart TV. These can be used to install malware or spyware on your device, putting your privacy at risk.
7. Check for Microphone and Camera
Before you buy a smart TV, check to see whether it has a camera and/or a microphone. You’ll want to dig around in the settings for this, before researching on your particular model if you have to.
If it is not possible to turn them off, consider whether you are willing to take the risk of buying that model or using that service.
Alternatively, tapping a piece of black tape over the camera eye is a back-to-basics option.
8. Avoid Default Settings
Another important measure to take is to avoid depending on default security settings. Change passwords if you can and know how to turn off the microphones, cameras, and collection of personal information if possible.
According to Francisco Navarro, a cyber security expert in Leicester, “Cyber-attackers can eavesdrop on the browser’s traffic and compromise the cookies that manage authentication to online services, such as social media accounts or online banking, and impersonate people.”
9. Check the Privacy Policy
Moreover, you should 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.
10. Avoid Using TV as a Browser
Another important measure is to avoid using your TV as a browser or your smartphone as a TV remote. Using the browser on your TV might be convenient, but it’s a major attack target for hackers.
MUST READ: How to Remotely Watch Netflix together on your Android & iOS?
If you suspect that you are being spied on, unplug your TV from the power source and alert the authorities immediately.
This means we have to be extra cautious about who we let into our homes and what devices we let in. If someone gained access to our television, they could easily watch and listen in on everything we do.
By following these tips, you can help prevent hackers from using your smart TV to spy on you and protect your privacy while enjoying your favorite shows and movies.
Drop Your Comments, What do you think About The Article?