Scammers Attacking Smart TVs and More About This Newer and Dangerous Threat
As technology continues to expand, smart gadgets are found almost everywhere in our daily lives. From doorbells that speak to us remotely while viewing visitors on our doorsteps to our omnipresent handheld devices, these conveniences are often an invitation to threats from potential scammers. As a matter of fact, experts in the industry are warning and advising consumers that "if everything is connected, everything can be hacked." YIKES!
How About a Real-Life Situation?
In one relatable case, Steven Kane, a typical consumer from Akron, Ohio didn't realize what he was getting into when he bought a Smart TV from a pawn shop. While the circumstances given this particular purchase are a little sketchy, it's not a stretch to connect the dots when acquiring this type of equipment. Mr. Kane endured multiple attacks including the first happening when he went to install Roku on this pre-owned device according to a local news source.
Unfortunately for Steven, he didn't realize that Roku doesn't require an activation or registration fee nor do they charge for support according to their website. This no-cost network is warning consumers about the misleading tactics, fake phone numbers, bogus websites, and pop-up windows "all with the intent of convincing you that you're visiting an actual Roku site. (or dealing with an authorized representative)"
What About Buying Another Device?
Sadly, not only did Steven sign up for this free service by paying through the nose using a phony phone connection, but he also gave up his debit card that was attached to his social security account. The attacks didn't stop after Kane purchased another Smart TV as the demands continued after he plugged in this supposed intelligent device. Somehow the scammer was still able to access his replacement television using the same tactics. Even worse, Steven continued to cough up cash to this crook.
What Else Are These Scammers Doing?
Once users give up personal information to these hackers, issues are usually just beginning that are more problematic than simple service interruptions. In other words, armed with this sensitive data, many of these scammers go after other types of bank accounts and their financial connections that could be disastrous similar to the events Mr. Kane endured.
Some of the more talented online thieves are going the extra mile to access email addresses and social media accounts to further drain their victims of everything from cash to their personal privacy. The additional steps they take make their attacks seem more believable given the revelation of this sensitive information. Think of it this way, we all know by now there's no unknown, unrelated overseas Nigerian prince offering us his inheritance to us, many people fell for this scam before this ruse became common knowledge. If you are worried about these new, uncommon Smart TV scams, there are tips available to help prevent them.
Are There Other Ways Consumers are Vulnerable?
What if that sketchy representative you're dealing with is aware of certain things you believe to be only common knowledge with you, close friends, family members, or co-workers? This information may have been shared through supposedly private email communications or published online using various social media platforms. The most important lesson to be learned here is this: Beware of what you share and who you share with on the Internet whether it's on Facebook or friendly chats using messaging services like email. Think twice before publishing, posting, or hitting that send button.
Does Buckeye Broadband Offer Protection?
Rest assured, customers of Buckeye Broadband are being connected to the Internet using today's most advanced technology to thwart these types of threats and attacks. Regardless of the level of your high-speed Internet service, you'll always get the best protection available to stop these hackers from invading your privacy and personal devices. If you still have questions or concerns, please contact us at any one of our many locations.
