With the proliferation of smart TVs and connected devices, protecting your home from malware and viruses is more important than ever. Smart TVs are made up of interconnected components such as web browsers, apps, streaming services, and internet-accessible game consoles, making them vulnerable to malware attacks. With this increased risk of cyber threats, it is essential to secure your smart TV with protection tools that will allow you to keep it safe from attack. In this guide, we’ll cover the importance of virus-proofing your TV and how you can do it!
What are the different viruses that can get into your TV?
There are several types of viruses that can attack smart TVs. The most common type is computer viruses, which are malicious software designed to steal personal information or gain access to an infected system. They can spread via links in emails, Internet downloads, and even from USB sticks or other external devices connected to the TV.
In December 2016, a form of malware known as “ransomware” was deployed on smart TVs running the Android operating system. This ransomware blocked users from their device until they paid a ransom to regain access.
An antivirus vendor also detected apps that falsely advertised access to international TV channels. In reality, these malware programs created a backdoor vulnerability that allowed cybercriminals to obtain sensitive personal data and spread infections to other connected devices within the user’s home network.
Finally, there are also adware-type viruses that interrupt the user’s experience on a website or application by displaying unwanted ads and pop-ups. This type of virus usually spreads when users install freeware applications or visit untrustworthy websites. It is important to note that all of these types of viruses pose a risk to smart TVs and should be removed as soon as possible if present on the device.
What steps should you take to protect your smart TV from viruses and hacking?
Be sure to install available updates.
The first step is to ensure that all software updates are installed as soon as they are available. Smart TVs are vulnerable to malicious attacks like any other connected device. It is therefore important to ensure that all the latest patches and software updates have been applied. This not only helps keep your system secure, but also protects you from potential exploits.
Change your passwords monthly.
Another thing to consider is using a strong password for your TV’s network connection. Many people use default passwords for their devices, which can leave them open to exploitation by hackers. Make sure the password you choose is complex enough not to be easily guessed by someone with bad intentions. Also, remember to change this password every few months or so to increase security.
Install a trustworthy VPN.
If you plan to use streaming services like Netflix or Apple TV on your smart TV, make sure you also use a reliable VPN (virtual private network) service. A VPN encrypts all data that passes through your network connection. Which can protect you from hackers or identity thieves who try to access personal information such as your bank details or personal details.
Never download apps outside of the manufacturer’s store.
While it’s convenient and easy to download apps for your smart TV outside of the manufacturer’s store, it can open the door to viruses and malware. Therefore, to ensure the safety of your smart TV from hackers and other malicious attacks, only use apps downloaded from the official store of your device manufacturer.
You should also avoid downloading apps you don’t know or receiving links from untrusted sites, as they may contain malware that can cause irreparable damage to your device or even put your personal information at risk. Protecting your smart TV by paying attention to what’s on it is an important step in avoiding potential security threats.
Prioritize the parental code.
Many smart TVs come with parental control features that allow users to limit the types of content they can access on their device at any given time. This feature is particularly useful for households with children, as it allows parents to monitor what their children are watching without having to constantly monitor them themselves! It is also useful to prevent unwanted content from appearing on the screen during family movie nights and to avoid any purchase of video on demand without your authorization!
Keep your TV for entertainment only.
The easiest way is to make sure that you only use your TV for entertainment purposes and that you don’t access your email or use it to browse or shop online. Regularly upgrade your smart TV software to keep up with security updates, and configure settings to prevent unauthorized access.
Unplugging the television when not in use can also provide additional protection. It’s also worth investing in anti-virus software specifically designed for smart TVs, which can be used to scan for potential threats, although this may come at a cost. These simple precautions will keep your device safe, so you can relax and enjoy all of its features.
Never insert a USB drive without scanning it first.
Even if the USB flash drive looks safe on inspection, it’s best to scan the device on an antivirus, as modern hackers often take advantage of tiny vulnerabilities in the code. By investing a few minutes in security protocols, like scanning USB drives, you can avoid future technology crises. Being cautious and being alert to potential threats is key to keeping your smart TV safe from attack.
