Hacker shows just how easily smart devices can be hacked to give access to your personal info
It's easier than you think
Our tech might be more advanced than ever, but with it, a new breed of super-sophisticated hackers aren't far behind.
Even though the likes of Apple and Google promises us that our data is safe with them, one hacker is here to show you just how easy it is to break into your smart devices.
Once inside, hacked devices can spill your darkest secrets and personal information out into the world - ready to be scooped up on the darkweb.
In a segment on News 5 Cleveland, investigative journalist Jonathan Walsh and 'ethical hacker' Rob Simon showed how easy it is to hack into someone's smart devices.
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Simon has been hacking for years in hopes of teaching people about the dangers of tech and how easily they're leaving their virtual doors unlocked. Cybersecurity is a big deal, and it's not hard to see why.
Something as simple as throwing out a smart lightbulb can allow hackers to extract information including your network settings.
Once they've been deciphered, hackers can get into your home network at the press of a button.
Buying a cheap device for just $15, hackers can take their skills on the road. In the video, Simon was able to tamper with someone's home thermostat simply by guessing its password.
Someone fiddling with your heating is one thing, but the video suggests that hackers could use the thermostat's calendar to figure out when the home is unoccupied and ready to be burgled.
Alex Hammerstone from TrustedSec said that using one password across multiple sites is dangerous because it'll only be as secure as the weakest site where you use it.
With data breaches happening all the time, there's a legion of internet hackers willing to pay for it. If that wasn't bad enough, a quick search of Google reveals actual courses in hacking, while hacking-centric videos are all the rage on YouTube.
A previous investigation from the news organization revealed a website that's hacked into thousands of cameras, showcasing everything from surgeries to naked people, and even children in school.
It's definitely a cause for concern that as the world continues to embrace technology, hackers are there to exploit it just as much.
Despite there being plenty of ethical hackers out there who are trying to fight for the side of the consumer, there are likely far more trying to use tech for their own gains.
With so many internet-connected products now in our homes (including microwaves), it's important to remain vigilant.
The advice is to use multi-layer authentication to confirm you're the person who should be accessing these devices, but unfortunately, it's easier said than done.