Source URL: https://it.slashdot.org/story/25/02/07/1314200/zombie-devices-raise-cybersecurity-alarm-as-consumers-ignore-smart-tech-expiry-dates?utm_source=rss1.0mainlinkanon&utm_medium=feed
Source: Slashdot
Title: ‘Zombie Devices’ Raise Cybersecurity Alarm as Consumers Ignore Smart Tech Expiry Dates
Feedly Summary:
AI Summary and Description: Yes
Summary: The text highlights critical vulnerabilities associated with unsupported smart devices, as revealed by a survey of Americans. It underscores the risks posed by these devices to cybersecurity, especially in light of recent incidents involving cyber attacks linked to outdated technology.
Detailed Description:
This content is significant for security and compliance professionals as it exposes the risks posed by unsupported smart devices, particularly regarding their security vulnerabilities and the lack of awareness among consumers. Key points from the survey and related incidents include:
– **Survey Findings**: A survey of 2,130 Americans revealed that 43% are unaware that their smart devices might lose software support, exposing them to security vulnerabilities.
– **Cybersecurity Incidents**:
– U.S. authorities disrupted a Chinese state-sponsored botnet targeting unsupported home routers and cameras, emphasizing the real and present threat posed by obsolete technology.
– Cloudflare reported a record-breaking DDoS attack attributed largely to compromised smart TVs and set-top boxes, illustrating how unsupported devices can be vectors for large-scale attacks.
– **Consumer Awareness**:
– Only 39% of consumers were informed by manufacturers about the potential loss of software support for their devices.
– Many individuals found out about the problems when the devices ceased functioning (40%) or through media sources (15%).
– **Expectations Vs. Reality**:
– A significant 70% of consumers expect their large appliances to continue functioning even after losing software support, indicating a disconnect between consumer expectations and the practical realities of technology support.
– **Lack of Information from Manufacturers**:
– Only 14% of 21 smart appliance brands outline support timeframes, and a Federal Trade Commission study indicated that just 11% of 184 devices disclose support duration, leading to confusion among consumers about the lifespan of their devices.
This content is critical for professionals in security, compliance, and infrastructure domains as it highlights the need for better awareness and clearer communication from manufacturers regarding device support, as well as the urgent necessity of addressing security vulnerabilities that arise from outdated or unsupported technology. Additionally, it emphasizes the relevance of informed consumer practices in enhancing overall security postures.