Your Privacy On Notice With New Ring Doorbell Vulnerability
By: Jim Stickley and Tina Davis
April 4, 2019
Privacy is on notice again with a recent discovery regarding the Ring doorbell system. In this case, it’s possible for an attacker to gain access via the associated app and perform man-in-the middle attacks. This then allows whomever it is that gets that access to spy on the owners and whoever comes to the door.
Granted, in this case the attacker would need to have access to the same network on which the Ring is connected. While at home, it’s less likely this will happen although it’s still possible. But if the users connect to public wireless, it’s not out of the question for things to go awry. And, another condition for this to work is that the firmware and app need to be on versions other than the version available in early March of 2019.
So, there are a couple of notes here. First, be sure to update all apps and firmware for all internet connected devices (that includes, but is not limited to game consoles, e-Readers, toys, security systems, and even crockpots) as soon as those patches are released. In the case of Ring (owned by Amazon), it often just does this automatically for the firmware. The app however, allows you to control it, should you choose. It’s recommended to just set all of your apps to automatically update. Then you don’t have to worry about it and vulnerabilities like this are covered for you.
In addition to that, make sure your wireless network password is strong and definitely changed from the default password. If you’re installing a new internet connected device, one of the very first things you should do after you get administrator access is change the administrator password. Then update the firmware. Often, these hardware pieces sit on store shelves for a while and updates are issued in the meantime. So, do this quick check after you’ve changed your admin password.
Being able to control your thermostat, security system, smart outlets and other items in your home when you’re away is convenient and quite nice. But make sure you keep them safe too and they will keep you as safe as they can.