14 DAY TRIAL // Security researchers discovered that one Internet-connected vibrator equipped with a camera can easily be hacked and the video streamed live without the user even knowing.
If there was ever need for proof that not every little object needs to be connected to the Internet, this was it. The Internet of Things craze has its beauty and there are countless gadgets that will completely change the way the world around us works, but a "smart" vibrator isn't exactly what the world needed.
According to researchers from security firm Pen Test Partners, the Svakom Siime Eye, which costs close to $250, can be hacked quite easily. The dildo itself already comes with the video streaming capability, but when the connection isn't secure, it can only mean trouble.
If someone is in a Wi-Fi range of the dildo, they can guess the password. If the default one hasn't been changed (88888888), then the job of the hacker is even easier since they can immediately join in on the fun and watch the video too. A little bit more digging gives hackers the ability to take control of the firmware and connect to it remotely.
In short, when someone is using the dildo, the hackers can see the video stream without the user even knowing it. They could even live stream it on their own, taking advantage of the situation even more.
A history of bad security
Of course, Internet-connected devices are often not really that secure. When it comes to sex toys, however, the history is even worse with researchers finding they can crack them in no time. Earlier this month, one company even agreed to pay a $3.7 million settlement after it was revealed that it collected sensitive personal information on users.
The folks over at Pen Test Partners informed Svakom about the vulnerabilities over the past few months, starting in December. After resending emails in January and February and receiving no response, they decided to come forward with the situation, especially given its delicate nature.
It is clear as day that some things just shouldn't be able to connect to the Internet.