Smartwatches and Wearables: Serious Security Risks – Five Ways to Protect Yourself

Smartwatches and other wearable devices are growing in popularity.

Perhaps the collaboration of technology with fashion is what draws some people to these devices, though We all need to understand the risks involved in using such a deviceThey confirm ESET digital security experts.

Increased security risk of cyberattacks on wearable devices

the wearable includes Exercise rings or bands used to monitor pulses or oxygen levels, Glasses that can augment reality by artificial means etc.

According to the latest research, Wearable Devices Market Is Expected To Grow By 12.9% From 2023 To 2030with its current size already reaching $71.91 billion.

Best selling products around Devices that are worn on the hand, head, and eyes.

The personal medical information of users of smartwatches and wearable devices is at risk

“These devices present a greater security risk than smartphones, not only for consumers, but for businesses as well.”say experts from ESET as well Cybercriminals try to gain access to personal information on or through these devices.

The fact that these devices can track and report it User health metrics It is just one of many interests.

Previously, this data was only useful to the users themselves or their doctors.

today though, It may end up in the hands of third partieswho may sell the information or use it to create personalized ads.

Still, it can be done Offense From this data to track a person’s location, habits, and other details with high accuracy.

Security risks even in companies where users of wearable devices work

At the same time, the potential connection of wearable devices to corporate networks can create security risks for business, as these devices often share their communications with phones, creating potential means of cyber attack.

The same goes for attacks Phishing Phishing Phishing Phishingwhich pervades the digital world and also poses a threat to “smart” watches, since their functions are now closer to those of a phone.

A simple password is better than no password

Many security experts warn that “smart watches” often lack proper user authentication methods, because they don’t prompt users to create strong PINs or passwords to unlock their devices.

But even if they do, these measures are often vulnerable, because the hardware involved doesn’t offer the same set of processing power to provide complex authentication procedures as the phones.

but, Even a simple password is better than no password at all.

The other thing that causes concern is data storage. And this, because “smart watches” now have their own drives.

Data stored on them often lacks encryption or, even worse, uses “cloud” solutions. (clouds) To transfer said data, which can be hacked relatively easily by means of a cyberattack.

This also applies to bluetooth connection Between the watch and the phone, data sniffers can intercept the transmission of data from the watch to the phone or vice versa.

There are a few ways to make the use of wearables safer

ESET experts recommend five steps:

1. Regularly check for software and security updates on your watch.

2. Check your app’s permissions.

3. Create a PIN or password.

4. Pay attention to what you store on your device.

5. Consider some basic cybersecurity measures.

Together, these five steps provide a “roadmap” for improving security, however, caution is still required when using any wearable device.

Android device users should prioritize using a reliable mobile cybersecurity application and remain vigilant when downloading applications from third parties.

With information from APE