The use of Smart TV has gained ground over the past years. Just like smartphones, it allows a user to use internet services, run apps and use social media. However, some reports reveal that Smart TV could be posing a great security risk to users.
FBI cautioned people to be careful using these types of TV since they are designed with a microphone and camera that allow hackers to easily access your services and whereabouts through the internet router.
Reportedly, the FBI had sent a stern warning to the manufacturers about the risks that Smart TV expose to their users. It was discovered that manufacturers do not add any security measures as their priorities as noted by the FBI.
It was further revealed that apart from the fact the TV manufacturers and app developers can watch their audience (users), the hacker can also use the TV to access their homes.
Reports made it clear by stating that, it is so easy for a hacker to access personal unsecured television through the Internet router rather than locked-down personal computer directly.
It was further divulged hackers can have full control of your Smart TV's microphone and camera which enables them to know your whereabouts by watching you. Even though cases of such attacks are rare, the users are pretty aware of them.
Although these TVs have been designed and come with respective makers' owner, some of these devices are still not immune to hackers. Hackers have the potential to maliciously hijack the Google Chromecast Streaming Stick and random broadcast video of the device.
For security reasons, the FBI recommends the user to cover their cameras with black tape to prevent hackers from watching them and they should always consider reading the privacy and policies of the TV for better understanding of what they are required to do.