Can Bluetooth be Hacked? Here are 11 Tips to be safe

Bluetooth is a communication protocol that allows two devices to connect wirelessly. It’s most commonly used in headsets, speakers, mice, and keyboards. The technology has also been implemented in cars, gaming consoles, and TVs.

With so many devices using Bluetooth, it’s important to know if the protocol is secure. Unfortunately, the answer is no.

In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the ways that hackers can exploit Bluetooth devices and what you can do to protect yourself.

How Can Bluetooth be Hacked?

There are a few different ways that hackers can take advantage of Bluetooth-enabled devices.

1. Bluejacking:

This involves sending unsolicited messages or advertisements to other Bluetooth users in the area using Bluetooth technology on their mobile phones, laptops, computers, tablets, etc. The sender sends unsolicited vCards, business cards, or text messages to the victim’s device without their knowledge or consent.

2. Bluesnarfing:

This is when a hacker accesses information from a device without the owner’s permission. This could include phone contacts, calendar entries, text messages, and even photos.

If you have your device connected to Bluetooth all the time, you are at risk of being hacked.

You can help protect your phone by ensuring that Bluetooth is turned off when you’re not using it.

Most mobile users do not use their phone’s security features, such as two-factor authentication (2FA) and a strong PIN. That way, you are notified if someone is trying to access your device without permission.

Bluejacking vs Bluesnarfing

The difference between Bluejacking and Bluesnarfing is that while Bluejacking is only intended to irritate you, Bluesnarfing is deadly because it steals the data from the device.

3. Bluebugging:

A bluebugging attack begins when a hacker tries to connect with a victim’s device via Bluetooth. If the unauthorized connection is successful, then the attacker installs malware that allows them access without going through authentication. This bypass software typically exploits an existing vulnerability.

4. Man-in-the-middle attacks:

Man-in-the-middle attacks are now known as Manipulator-in-the-middle attacks.

These MITM attacks occur when a hacker positions himself in a conversation between the user and the device. They can then intercept and even modify the data being exchanged between the two devices.

This type of attack aims to swindle personal information from its victims, such as login details, account numbers, and credit card digits. The usual target is people who frequently use financial apps, SaaS companies, e-commerce sites, and other websites that require a login.

Let’s see how it impacts your car!

Indrive mentions in one of its posts that the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration(NHTSA) has come out with a set of best practices that the auto industry should comply with.

NHTSA is looking at vehicles that have over-the-air (OTA) upgrade capabilities.

Manufacturers should safeguard not just the vehicle’s critical updates, but also the servers that host them and the transmission mechanism between the vehicle and the computers as well as the updating procedure on board.

Furthermore, NHTSA urges automakers to consider broader cybersecurity issues such as insider threats, man-in-the-middle attacks, protocol vulnerabilities, and hacked servers.

(Good to note this if you have a car)

5. Denial-of-service attack:

A denial-of-service attack (DoS) shuts down the computer or the entire network so that it cannot be used anymore by the users.

The attacker usually floods the network with too much traffic or data so that genuine requests cannot be processed.

This type of attack is usually carried out by botnets, which are a group of computers that have been infected with malware and can be controlled remotely by the attacker.

 How to Protect Yourself from Bluetooth Hacking

  There are a few steps you can take to protect yourself from Bluetooth hacking:

 #1. Use pairing techniques that require a passkey

Most newer devices have this feature enabled by default, older models will ask for a PIN to be entered. Passkeys make it more difficult for hackers to access your device because they need to know the secret code in order to connect.

 #2. “Disable” your device when you’re not using it

If you don’t need Bluetooth enabled, turn it off! By keeping your device “discoverable” you’re just making it easier for hackers to find and exploit any vulnerabilities.

#3. “Be aware” of your surroundings

If you’re in a public place and someone nearby is trying to connect to your device without permission, be cautious!

#4. ” Update” your software regularly

Hackers are always finding new ways to exploit vulnerabilities so it’s important that you keep your software up-to-date with the latest security patches.

 #5. “Use” trusted apps

When connecting to a new Bluetooth Device, to play a movie or a game, make sure that you’re using a reputable app that has good reviews and doesn’t require excessive permissions.

#6. Keep your device close by

The further away your device is from you, the easier it is for someone to hack it. So, if you can, keep it on your person or within close range.

#7. Be cautious of public Wi-Fi hotspots

If you’re using Bluetooth in a public place, be aware that there may be malicious individuals nearby who could attempt to hack into your device or the devices of others around you.

#8. Use a VPN

If you’re worried about someone snooping on your data, consider using a VPN (Virtual Private Network) which will encrypt your traffic and make it more difficult for hackers to spy on you.

#9. Change the default name of your device

This might seem like a small thing but it can help to deter hackers because it makes it more difficult for them to identify your device.

#10. Use two-factor authentication

If your device supports it, two-factor authentication is a great way to add an extra layer of security. This means that in addition to a password, you’ll also need a second code which is usually generated by an app on your phone.

#11. Keep an eye on your battery life

If you notice that your battery is draining unusually fast, it could be a sign that someone is trying to connect to your device without your permission. Pay attention to any strange behavior and take steps to secure your device if you suspect that it’s being targeted by hackers.

Can neighbors connect to your Bluetooth devices?

Yes, if they are in range and your device is set to “discoverable.” You can prevent this by disconnecting Bluetooth when you’re not using it.

You should also be aware of your surroundings and who might be trying to connect to your device without permission. If you’re in a public place, it’s best to keep your device turned off or set to “undiscoverable.”

If you’re worried about neighbors connecting to your devices, you can use a passcode and secure your device.

Alternatively, you can use a Bluetooth security app that will periodically change the discovery mode for you.

Conclusion

I would like to know what you think about Bluetooth hacking.

Specifically, I’d like to know:

Which step are you going to take to keep your Bluetooth secure?

Let me know in the comments below now.