Hear iPad Pete read this article…
Are you using a smart TV to stream your favorite entertainment?
If so, be aware that hackers and scammers may be trying to target you.
Recent reports from the Better Business Bureau warn that scammers are using pop-ups on Smart TVs to steal personal information and money from unsuspecting victims.
Don’t let hackers take advantage of you – keep reading for an in-depth look at the scam alert surrounding Smart TVs!
How Do Hackers Target My TV?
Smart TVs are vulnerable to hackers.
If you open a streaming service and a pop-up appears, do not call the phone number or visit the website.
Scammers will pretend to be customer service representatives and try to get you to pay an activation fee or give them remote access to your device. They may pretend they are trying to help you and fix your problem. But they are actually the problem.
They may also ask you to buy gift cards as “anti-hacking protection.”
This is all a scam – do not fall for it!
If you allow scammers access to your device or interact with a link they have shared, they may install malware on your TV. The installed malware could will enable them to steal important private information from you.
A victem recently revealed that after responding to a pop-up advertisement on their smart TV, scam artists asked them to buy three $100 Xbox gift cards as “anti-hacking protection” for the account.
After making the purchases and getting back in touch with the number, they finally realized they had been scammed. But it was too late.
How to Protect Yourself from Smart TV Hackers
Smart TVs are becoming more popular, but unfortunately, scammers are increasingly targeting them. Knowing how to protect yourself from these hackers is essential for keeping your device and data secure.
The first step in protecting yourself is to double-check any fees you have to pay. Scammers often ask for money upfront, claiming it’s needed for activation or antivirus protection. A quick online search can help you determine if the fee is legitimate. For example, Roku never charges an activation fee, so if someone asks you to pay one, you know it’s likely a scammer.
Another way to protect yourself is by avoiding fake websites. Scammers often create fake websites that look exactly like the real thing but with slightly different URLs. Double-check the URL before clicking any links, and don’t click on pop-up links either. Instead, type web URLs directly into your browser to ensure you go to the correct website.
If you see a “customer service” phone number in a pop-up, check it against the number listed on the streaming services or TV manufacturer’s website. Double-Check the number so you know you’re actually speaking with a legitimate customer support representative, instead of someone trying to scam you.
Finally, never let anyone control your device remotely – even if they claim they can help fix an issue. Don’t give control of your device to strangers, as this could result in them gaining access to your device and data.
Final Thoughts
Protecting yourself from Smart TV hackers is possible if you know how to spot the signs of a scam.
Be sure to double-check fees, avoid fake websites, and never give control of your device away to strangers.
By following these simple tips, you can help keep your Smart TV secure and protected from Smart TV hackers.
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Thanks for the information about scammers.
Mine came in the form of a phone call, when he claimed that my cable box needed to be updated or I would lose all connection or have very poor reception. He was trying to “remotely” fix it with information I would give him. It just so happened the evening before I was having an issue and needed to call customer service, so I thought this might be related. However, when he asked me for my SS# and DOB, I realized this was a scam. I, thankfully, didn’t give him any personal information. I got his number to “call him back” and then contacted my cable company. They said it definitely was not them and they had me report it to their security department. I’m hoping the guy has been stopped, but he’ll probably just get another phone number!
You have taught this old lady a lot about my IPhone. Thank you for all the information you have shared including this information on smart TV’s and hackers.
Nicki