According to a recent report by the New York Times, hackers are graduating from credit card fraud to breaching home security systems, cars and implanted medical devices.
Newer cars are more at risk for car hacking, as they have a greater number of wireless connections such as Bluetooth and wireless tire sensors. Through these outlets, hackers can compromise car computer systems and disable the driver's ability to maintain control.
Home security systems are an even easier target for technology savvy thieves. Hackers are using smart TVs and refrigerators to break into homes. New apps that lock front doors are also potential gateways for break-ins.
Even apps that seem harmless can be dangerous. At the Black Hat security conference, Kevin McNamee, director of Kindsight Security Labs, demonstrated how he could take over an Android smartphone by implanting a code in the game “Angry Birds,” gaining control over the device and accessing pictures and personal data. Other researchers were able to hack an iPhone simply through the power cord.
More frightening is that hackers could target implanted medical devices, potentially killing the victim. “As technology embeds itself into these everyday devices and other parts of our lives, you will see an increased focus on their security. Anywhere you find technology, you'll inevitably find hackers,” said Chris Rohlf, founder of Leaf Security Research.
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