Smart phones, smart baby monitors and smart TVs; we are living in the ‘Smart’ era it seems. However, do we really understand what that means?
What’s a Smart TV?
Smart TV is not a new concept. In fact, the concept was first patented in 1994. Five years later, the TV sets were being produced on a commercial scale.
Smart TV in general refers to the integration of internet technologies into modern TV. This enables the TV to have various features similar to a modern computer. Smart TVs provide for greater connectivity through built in WI-FI, Apps and special features such as voice control.
Someone’s watching
With service providers offering bundles such as these exclusive DIRECTV offers, more people are actively connecting their TVs to the internet to stream content, use social media and perform various other tasks. While this has provided greater connectivity and convenience, it has also resulted in heightened security risks associated with smart TVs.
Quite recently, consumers were put on high alert when an article about the VIZIO TV was published. The article showed how the TV’s smart feature of tracking viewing habits was being used by advertisers to spy on consumers. The TV tracks what you view and your IP address. This data is used in conjunction with data brokers to determine your gender, income and interests. The information is then shared with advertisers who are able to track the devices that you’ve connected to your home’s IP address.
Samsung’s Smart TVs were also shown to collect data about you and your family through their TV’s voice recognition system. The feature captures private conversations in the room and passes this information on to third parties in a bid to ‘improve features’. One of the biggest problems with this feature is that the data is not properly encrypted when sent over the internet.
Protect yourself
You don’t have to trash your expensive Smart TV. There is a lot that you can do to protect your household from these insecurities.
- Update software
TV technology has come a long way. Like computers, software for Smart TVs needs to be updated regularly. With increased fears of insecurity, manufacturers are doing their best to patch up these holes. It is therefore in your best interests to update your software regularly and ensure that you have the latest firmware from your manufacturer.
- Invest in a firewall
Any device that you use to connect to the internet should be protected by a firewall. This includes your smart TV. If you have built-in firewall settings on your Smart TV, ensure that they are activated and regularly updated. If not, consider using a firewall that is router-based.
- Scan for malware
Many advanced Smart TVs have a malware scanner app. Regular scanning of your TV will help you keep malware out. You should also ensure that it is regularly updated.
- Keep the camera off
Always assume that your TV’s camera is on. Ensure that you check and turn it off. You can cover it with tape if you are extremely paranoid.
