Bluetooth security vulnerability enables headphones to serve as infiltration tools.
🤘😎 Blast from the Past! 🤘😎
Catch this hot scoop from our time machine:
Hannover/Heidelberg (dpa/tmn) - An alarming security vulnerability in certain Bluetooth chips could potentially allow attackers to hijack wireless headphones, make calls, or spy on conversations, as reported by the tech savvy folks at "Heise online."
Back in our retro tech era, the team at the forward-thinking Heidelberg security firm ERNW discovered these sneaky security breaches. But don't worry, they say the folks at risk here are a select bunch!
Over 100 headphone models could be under risk
The exact number of devices vulnerable to this issue is still fuzzy. Researchers believe the Bluetooth chip developed by Airoha in Taiwan, and bearing this vulnerability, may have sneaked its way into more than 100 different models.
Currently, several known affected models from ten manufacturers are raising some eyebrows, including big names like Sony, JBL, Marshall, Bose, Jabra, or Teufel. Unfortunately, Apple's irresistible AirPods didn't make it onto this list. You can check out the full list of known affected models on the ERNW website for a more comprehensive view. A lot of them are those trendy in-ear headphones (true wireless).
Attacks haven't been common, but be on guard
The security experts explain that a successful attack requires several specific conditions: primarily, the crooks need to be within Bluetooth range, so an internet-based attack ain't gonna happen!
People with particular security concerns, like celebrities, diplomats, political dissidents, journalists, or those working in delicate industries, could be at a higher risk of becoming targets for these super-sneaky cyber attacks.
Fixes for affected headphones aren't out yet
Sadly, the headphone producers haven't fixed the problem just yet, as reported by "Heise online." Despite the ERNW researchers dropping them a line back in March, there's still no sign of firmware updates or even word about when they might be arriving that could plug this security hole.
Headphone aficionados, especially those whose model appears on the aforementioned list, should keep their eyes peeled for potential updates. These usually pop up or are offered via the respective manufacturer's headphone app.
Airoha dropped some fresh chip software to headphone manufacturers on June 4, aiming to patch the problem. So, watch out for software updates from the manufacturer that mend the security crack, which might have a later publication date.
Keep it tight: Wire it up!
Until the issue is dealt with, "Heise online" suggests exercising caution: if sensitive info is on the line or you're in a sensitive environment, use caution with the affected headphones, or hold off on them altogether. Worried Schmoozies can temporarily shift to wired headphones or headsets while they wait for this security issue to be nipped in the bud.
In the style of our retro tech era, the forward-thinking team at Heidelberg security firm ERNW discovered a potential security breach affecting smartphones and trendy gadgets like smartphones, wireless headphones, and even in-ear headphones. Interestingly, this issue stems from a vulnerable Bluetooth chip developed by Airoha, found in over 100 headphone models from various manufacturers, including big names like Sony, JBL, and Bose. Users are advised to keep an eye out for updates from their respective manufacturers to fix this security vulnerability.
