Beware of smart TV hacking problem

In this digital age, it goes without saying consumers can be vulnerable to hacking and other cyber-attacks. As October is National Cyber Security Awareness month, it is especially important for homeowners to evaluate cyber security and its impact on their homes. With every new technology, hackers will try to find a way to infiltrate it, and the Better Business Bureau of Greater Houston and South Texas warns homeowners to consider the possibility of protecting their smart TVs, a popular purchase these days. What you may not realize is, smart TVs can be hacked — just like a computer or smartphone.

When you use your smart TV to browse the Internet, scammers can gain access to your device. On smart TVs, the security connections might not be automatically in place.

If your TV is hacked, scammers can access the camera and voice controls. They can use this to spy on your home (for a break-in) or listen in on conversations. Scammers also can gain access to information on the machine, such as usernames and passwords, or even computers on the same network.

Smart TV hacking isn’t really a big issue. Yet. But as more people purchase these TVs, con artists are bound to find ways to use them for scams. A similar situation happened with smartphones a few years ago.

The BBB offers these tips to keep Internet-connected electronics such as a smart TV secure:

• Treat your TV like a computer. Essentially, your smart TV is a computer, so use the same common sense you would use for keeping your laptop safe. Create a secure, password-protected network to connect to the internet. Also, change the preset password given to you when you received your router.

• Keep your TV system up to date. Manufacturers will do their best to patch security holes. System updates must be performed regularly, but they are vital for protecting all your devices.

• Use firewalls. Any device that connects to the internet should be guarded by a firewall. Be sure to turn on your smart TV’s built-in firewall settings, making sure they are enabled and also use a router with an enabled firewall.

• Secure your network. Be sure your home’s wireless network is secure by having proper passwords and up-to-date software.

• Watch the camera. Assume your TV’s camera and microphone are turned on. If you are concerned, cover the camera with a piece of tape.

• Consider hiring outside help, if necessary. Research possible IT or cyber security companies with the BBB at BBBHouston.org if you need assistance in evaluating your present IT security situation and to determine whether further protection is needed.

The Better Business Bureau is an unbiased nonprofit organization that sets and upholds high standards for fair and honest business behavior. Every year, more than 87 million consumers rely on BBB Business Reviews and BBB Wise Giving Reports to help them find trustworthy businesses and charities across North America. For information or to check the reliability of a company and find trustworthy businesses, visit www.bbbhouston.org, which includes our BBB Accredited Business Directory, or call 713-868-9500. Leah Napoliello is senior director of Investigative Services with the Better Business Bureau of Greater Houston and South Texas. Send questions regarding homeowner issues to Leah Napoliello, Better Business Bureau, 1333 West Loop South, Suite 1200, Houston, TX 77027, or e-mail her at lnapoliello@bbbhou.org. Include mailing address and phone number on letters and emails.