You most likely find at least one smart TV in every home. They’re every introvert’s dream come true. Due to their convenience, they allow you to stream content, browse the web, and even play games—all from sitting on your couch.
Yet, smart TVs are vulnerable to hackers just like any other internet-connected device. Your privacy and safety are in grave danger because of this. Let’s discuss what it means to keep your TV safe from bad actors and how to enjoy your favorite shows in peace.
How Does Hacking Happen and What Are the Consequences?
You might think you don’t have to worry about the safety of your smart TV, but bad actors are just waiting patiently to make you regret that decision. For starters, most users don’t bother to change their default passwords on their TVs. Hackers basically have a free pass in getting into your accounts this way.
Next, if your home Wi-Fi network isn’t secure, cybercriminals can easily take control of your TV or other gadgets connected to it. Installing programs from untrusted sources can expose your TV to viruses, allowing hackers to take control of it. Last but not least, if you don’t update the software on your TV, it becomes vulnerable to hackers who can take advantage of it.
If hackers get their hands on your smart TV, they’ll be able to watch everything you do and learn all about your habits and interests. Talk about a horror movie!
Hackers can steal this data if you’ve entered personal information into your TV or its connected apps. If your TV has a camera and microphone, hackers can use these to spy on you and your household. Not only that, but they can also spread malware to other devices on your network.
How to Protect Your Smart TV from Hackers?
By following these steps, you won’t ever have to worry about your TV watching your every move:
Change Default Passwords
Instead of procrastinating, change your default passwords as soon as possible. This is the first step in ensuring the safety of your smart TV. Do this as soon as you install it because hackers can easily guess the preset passwords that come with many smart TVs. Therefore, put your mind into creative mode and create a strong, unique password. Mixing letters, numbers, and symbols in your password is a good idea to make it harder to figure out.
Use a VPN
VPNs are the unsung heroes of data security. They encrypt your internet connection, making it difficult for hackers to intercept your data. For example, an Apple TV VPN setup can add an extra layer of security and peace of mind for every homeowner. To make this possible, you can configure the VPN on your router or use a smart DNS service provided by your chosen VPN. By doing so, you can be assured that your smart TV is transmitting data securely, shielding you from prying eyes.
Keep Up with Updates
Updating software is probably the last thing on your mind, but it’s super important. The same goes for updating your smart TV’s operating system. Manufacturers release updates to patch vulnerabilities and improve security. Regularly updating your TV can protect it against known security threats. Ideally, set your TV to update itself automatically so you won’t have to do it manually.
Download Apps from Trusted Sources
To save yourself a lot of stress, only download apps from the official app store or trusted sources. Unverified apps can contain malware that allows hackers to gain control of your TV. Stick to well-known and trustworthy apps to avoid installing malicious software.
Secure Your Home Network
If you want to transform your Wi-Fi network into an impenetrable fortress of security, use a strong password and enable WPA3 encryption. This prevents hackers from easily accessing your network and the devices connected to it, including your smart TV. To keep your primary network more secure, you might want to set up a guest network for visitors.
