WikiLeaks: the CIA has been tapping the phones, computers and TVs
The organization WikiLeaks has published secret documents of the CIA under the name of Vault 7. Files tell about the hacker groups that hack into smartphones, computers and other mass products.
Encryption is not an obstacle
According to the documents, the CIA is a unit of MDB (Mobile Devices Branch), dealing with hacking of smartphones. Staff is working on obtaining access to geolocation, microphone, messages and images from the cameras of the devices. They already know about 24 vulnerabilities in Android that allow you to bypass protection for all popular instant messengers, encrypted (Telegram, WhatsApp, etc.).
However, the main task of the MDB — breaking iPhone because these smartphones are used by many high-profile people from around the world.
Computers are vulnerable
The Network Devices Branch division deals with hacking of computers and servers on Windows, macOS and Linux. They use a common virus that spreads through drives or disguised files and programs. Also, the group is developing an automated system intrusion network infrastructures in companies.
TVs too “smart”
Other documents report on the activities of the CIA for hacking into a “smart” TV. The program allows the Weeping Angel to infiltrate the system Samsung TV. It will seem off, but in the background records sound via microphone and sends the data to a special server via the Internet.
This is only the first part of the secret documents from the Center kiberrazvedki CIA. In the future, WikiLeaks could publish new information on the work of US intelligence.
Updated: position Samsung
The company said it has launched an investigation into the incident. At the Russian office Samsung has commented on the situation for Hi-Tech Mail.Ru:
The privacy and safety of our devices is a priority for Samsung. We are aware of the report referred to, and we are urgently studying the issue.
Also, in the representation of Samsung in Russia told us that the report describes third-party software that was installed with the connected USB drive. This applies to TVs sold in 2012 and 2013. Most of these devices have already received corrections from Samsung. The company is constantly working to protect users ‘ privacy and continuously monitors any risks to the security of Smart TV, and in the case of detection, taking all necessary actions.
The main thing that users can do to ensure the safety of their devices – the continuous update of software and applications.