In this article, we will examine several indicators of abnormal behavior in a Smart TV that could suggest a potential security breach, where a hacker may have gained unauthorized access to your television.
While smart TVs offer numerous benefits, they also present a notable drawback: susceptibility to hacking. Unfortunately, hackers have been increasingly targeting smart TV owners, particularly because many people are unaware of the measures required to safeguard their televisions against cybersecurity threats. If you have observed any peculiar activities on your TV and have started to question what might be happening, we will provide you with guidelines to help determine whether your TV has been compromised.
False shutdown of your Smart TV
One method to identify potential remote control of your Smart TV is when it fails to power off completely. This particular hack is referred to as “Weeping Angel,” which apparently draws its name from the infamous Doctor Who characters. Once installed, this hack disables the TV’s backlight, making the screen appear blank. In reality, the TV remains operational, allowing hackers to gain unauthorized access without your knowledge. They can even exploit the TV’s microphone and camera, giving them control similar to that of laptops. In some cases, hackers may attempt to blackmail you if they come across any compromising material.
To determine if Weeping Angel has been installed on your TV, check if the power LED remains illuminated even when the TV is supposedly “off.” Unlike the red LED that indicates powering off via the remote control, a persistent illuminated LED may indicate a potential hack. In such cases, it is advisable to cover the TV’s camera (if applicable) and take appropriate cybersecurity measures to protect your privacy.
Smart TV apparently works by itself
If your Smart TV starts behaving erratically, such as experiencing sudden volume changes, unexplained settings modifications, or unauthorized access to features like the camera and microphone, it’s a cause for concern. In such situations, it is crucial to be proactive in addressing the issue.
If you suspect that a hacker is aware of their presence and attempts to contact you through the TV, the first step is to immediately disconnect the TV from the power source. By doing so, you effectively cut off the hacker’s access since the TV is no longer connected to power. Afterward, it is recommended to seek assistance from a cybersecurity technician who can guide you through the necessary steps to resolve the situation and remove the unauthorized presence from your Smart TV.
Application changes
If you notice new apps and files mysteriously appearing on your smart TV, it could indicate that your device has been hacked and is being accessed remotely. In such cases, it is important to exercise caution and refrain from opening any unfamiliar files, as they may contain malware or other malicious content.
One common motive behind smart TV hacking is to gain unauthorized access to streaming service accounts. Hackers may exploit your account to watch shows and movies without your knowledge or permission. Additionally, they may even sell your account information to individuals who wish to access subscription-based platforms without paying the required fees. Once your account has been compromised, hackers may lock you out by changing the password and possibly even the associated email address. This enables them to assume complete control over your account while preventing you from changing the password or closing the account altogether. In more concerning scenarios, they may also attempt to exploit the credit card details associated with your subscription payments.
If you suspect that your smart TV has been hacked and your account information is at risk, it is crucial to take immediate action. Contact the relevant streaming service provider to report the issue and seek assistance in recovering your account. Additionally, consider engaging the services of a cybersecurity professional to investigate the breach, strengthen the security of your smart TV, and mitigate any potential risks to your personal information.