Electronic assistants pose security risk

The Mail is reporting that hackers could use Amazon voice gadget to steal bank details.

Millions have bought voice-activated speakers which play music, provide weather forecasts, order groceries and answer questions…

…The devices are brought to life by vocal commands such as ‘Alexa’ or ‘Hello Google’ but experts warn they pose a major security risk as they are always listening in and monitoring conversations.

Criminals could hack into them to find out when families are away or steal credit card details when someone orders a takeaway over the phone…

…Cybersecurity expert Dr Jason Nurse warned “If hackers find a way to compromise these devices in our homes, they could have it recording all of the time and you wouldn’t necessarily know”

“They could hear you discussing your holiday plans, so they know when you are away and could burgle you”

‘They may hear you buying something on the phone, giving away your credit card details”…

…”People should think about the cost-benefit pay-off in terms of privacy and security and how much convenience they add to your life”

As the popularity of these devices increase and they become a common sight in our homes, are we overlooking the security risk involved of inviting such devices into our daily routine because of the benefit that automation brings?

Read more at ‘Electronic assistants pose security threat’

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