The New Form of Hacking: Bluebugging
Recent years have seen an increase in cyber security threats, with tales of hacks entering the news nearly every day. Along with the rise in digitalization, there has been an increase in the number of malware attacks on people all around the world. People who are unaware of such attacks may suffer significant financial losses as well as have their most private information stolen.
Our devices are now much more susceptible to hacker attacks thanks to the increased use of Bluetooth-enabled devices like AirPods and other TWS products, as well as Bluetooth’s use in vehicle stereos and even on smartphones. Hackers use a variety of techniques, like blue bugging, to access sensitive data and information. After bluejacking or bluesnarfing, hackers use blue bugging to take control of targets and gain access to confidential information on laptops and smartphones. Even the most protected computers, such as government portals, and devices, like iPhones, are susceptible to similar attacks.
How Does it Happen?
Bluebugging often begins when a hacker attempts to pair with a victim’s device over Bluetooth. Once a connection has been made, the hacker sets up malware or a backdoor to avoid authentication. Malware is typically made to obtain access without authorization by taking advantage of a weakness. A brute-force assault, which comprises repeatedly entering a victim’s account by randomly guessing username-password combinations, can sometimes be used by the attacker to compromise a device. The hacker can virtually do anything the device owner can once they have access, including reading messages, placing calls, and changing contact information.
Distinguishing Bluebugging from Bluejacking and Bluesnarfing
The three hacking methods take use of Bluetooth-enabled gadgets’ flaws.
The goal of bluejacking is to annoy or push products by “pranking” device owners by sending innocuous notifications.
On the other side, bluesnarfing is a more nefarious variation of bluejacking since hackers get access to Bluetooth-connected devices without the device owners’ consent to downloading private information like phone books, messages, or pictures.
Bluebugging, which gives attackers complete control of a target device, goes beyond bluejacking and bluesnarfing. Hackers can wirelessly tamper with a mobile device to place and receive calls and send and receive messages on behalf of unknowing victims.
Precautionary Measures
Users of Bluetooth-enabled devices must take the necessary precautions, such as:
a) Update Devices
Bluetooth is automatically made discoverable on older devices. Systems are then vulnerable to unauthorised connections. This problem has been fixed in more recent smartphones and computers. Users using outdated devices might need to upgrade their software or deactivate Bluetooth.
b) Avoid Going Hands-Free
Limit the use of hands-free connections if you are exchanging sensitive information.
c) Reject Unsolicited Messages
Strangers’ messages should always be ignored or deleted right away. Make your device as untraceable as possible.
d) Monitor Dara Usage
Knowing how much data you typically use is useful. When you observe spikes, someone may be hacking your system and consuming your data.
e) Be Wary of Suspicious Activity
It also helps to disconnect Bluetooth from any associated devices while not in use. Additionally, when using public Wi-Fi to connect devices, one must exercise caution.
Avoid agreeing to arbitrary pairing requests because your carelessness could make it simple for hackers to gain access to your device. The default setting for Bluetooth on most devices is discovery mode, which leaves your device open to unwanted connections. It is therefore advisable to make your equipment untraceable.
f) Delete Unused Bluetooth Connections
On your smartphone, for example, you could be surprised to see a big list of Bluetooth connections that you’ve used in the past but neglected to erase. Make it a habit to regularly delete any previous Bluetooth pairings from your device as a best practice for Bluetooth security. The Norton site adds that even if the likelihood of an old connection posing a threat is remote, it still doesn’t hurt to delete it from your device.
Conclusion
Turning off your device’s Bluetooth capabilities when not in use is the best strategy to prevent bluejacking. Do this, particularly if you’re in a public setting. Additionally, ensure sure your device is not discoverable if you need to use the Bluetooth functionality. In this manner, you can take advantage of technology’s advantages without having to worry about bluejacking.
Bluejacking is more of a joke than a threat, but it is still a good idea to always protect your device and, by extension, your privacy. If you do decide to try it out, follow the example of the more morally upright pranksters.
