Bluetooth has been around since the year 2000. It’s evolved into a smooth means for professionals to link devices, and it can be used for a number of purposes, like routing voice conversations through automobile speakers and allowing users to utilise wireless mouse, headphones, and other devices. However, the issue today is: how safe is Bluetooth technology?
Has the technology’s widespread use led to a lack of concern about Bluetooth network security? Everyone is aware of the dangers of utilising the internet for business, but have you considered the consequences of a Bluetooth connection breach?
This post will look at how Bluetooth works, where Bluetooth security vulnerabilities exist, and how to mitigate your Bluetooth security risks both on the go and in the workplace.
What exactly is Bluetooth?
Bluetooth sends data (information) between two linked devices using radio waves.
Bluetooth does not use your mobile data plan or internet connection, so you may use it to connect your gadgets for free.
It’s an entirely different way of transmitting data wirelessly. Because Bluetooth can only connect to one device at a time, most gadgets do not support Bluetooth multi connect.
How does it function?
Connecting two Bluetooth devices is a straightforward procedure. Apart than having two Bluetooth-enabled devices, there is just one requirement: proximity.
What is the Bluetooth range?
A Bluetooth connection will last for around 50 metres (164 feet) until it drops out. This is why most Bluetooth technology is geared at personal devices, such as:
- Smartphones
- Bluetooth headphones
- In-car hands-free calling
- Bluetooth headsets
- Technology for health monitoring
- Computer mice that are wireless
A verification procedure takes place before two devices may connect to one other. Because this concentrates on single Bluetooth connections, Bluetooth multi connect is not applicable.
When Bluetooth is enabled on a device, it is usually set to ‘discoverable.’ This indicates that anyone using Bluetooth within 50 metres of it may find it (answering the question, what is the Bluetooth range?).
If you wish to connect to a device, you must first input its Bluetooth passkey. This procedure is dependent on the security levels of your Bluetooth versions, as well as your personal actions and Bluetooth security standards.
What security concerns do you have?
Bluetooth is tremendously convenient, but if it is not utilised properly, it might expose users to Bluetooth security issues. You are at danger if you have email, social media, banking applications, or confidential information on your smartphone.
It is critical that devices used for business, in particular, remain secure. We can learn to defend ourselves once we grasp some of the various ways hackers might cause havoc on your computers by exploiting Bluetooth vulnerabilities.
Worms and viruses
Smartphones and tablets are vulnerable to viruses, which are frequently downloaded from seemingly trustworthy programmes. Typing mistakes on smartphone keyboards are common, resulting in mistyped site URLs. Malware and other harmful items can be loaded on your devices if you misspell a common website name by one letter. Counterfeit websites might be difficult to recognise since smartphone displays are smaller. Once a virus is loaded, the device is vulnerable to Bluetooth security flaws and other problems.
Bluesnarfing
A hacker can take personal data from calendars, email, photos, contacts, and messages if they acquire access to your device (by connecting without your permission). This may put any amount of sensitive data at risk. When Bluetooth is hacked, does it utilise data? No, it’s still restricted to radio wavelengths.
Attacks that obstruct service (DDOS)
This is a harmful strategy that is occasionally employed to annoy or frighten someone. If your device is subjected to a DDOS assault, it will get inundated with annoying commands and freeze. Calls cannot be answered, data is (sometimes permanently) unavailable, and battery life is depleted.
Bluebugging
Bluetooth eavesdropping is another term for this. Hackers put up common-sounding device names (like “printer”) and deceive you into connecting with them instead of the genuine device you were looking for, similar to how malware websites exploit misspelt addresses to trick consumers. These are unpleasant consequences of Bluetooth security flaws.
They acquire access to your whole smartphone once you link with them; they can hear and record calls, monitor your whereabouts via GPS, and utilise your contact list.
Hackers can even listen in on conversations going on around you if you’re using a headset with a microphone. You could question if Bluetooth uses data when it’s been hacked, much like with bluesnarfing, and the answer is no, so that’s one less thing to worry about.
Update your Bluetooth versions to decrease risk.
The level of Bluetooth security is determined by the Bluetooth versions used by the devices. We’ll go over each version in detail below. It might be difficult to determine which Bluetooth versions your devices have at times. If you’re not sure, talk to the manufacturer. Bluetooth multi connect will not be accessible regardless of which version you use, however it may become available with subsequent device releases.
Level 1:
If your devices are level one, they will ‘pair’ (connect) without the need for a Bluetooth passkey or authentication. This may be extremely dangerous since it acts as an open door to your device, allowing anybody to pair with it and access the information stored on it.
Level 2:
The most frequent Bluetooth security option is this. After the devices have paired, they will ask for security codes to validate the connection. Because of the short time between pairing and verification, there is a security risk, but it is minor.
The third level
Bluetooth devices with level three security provide considerable protection from unauthorised intrusions. Before pairing, these devices must authenticate (exchange security codes), closing the gap that existed with level two devices.
Fourth level
The authentication mechanisms for these devices are the most demanding. They function as level three devices and require authentication prior to pairing. The authentication procedure is more complicated, making it incredibly tough to crack, considerably lowering Bluetooth security threats.
Accessories
Finally, when it comes to hardware, it’s worth looking at typical Bluetooth-enabled peripherals like headsets or headphones. Additional levels of encryption are available with some brands. It’s worth spending a little more for a little more risk reduction, and it helps to answer the question, “Is Bluetooth safe?”
Behavioral modification is one way to lessen risk.
You may begin to work on behavioural change after you are satisfied that you are utilising the most appropriate version of Bluetooth on your devices. Because proximity is crucial for connecting, setting up the bulk of devices in a safe place may prevent a lot of harm (like the office).
These improvements will significantly improve the security of your Bluetooth network.
Connect gadgets in safe places.
The most vulnerable time for hackers to get access to a device via Bluetooth vulnerabilities is when two devices pair and exchange authentication codes.
This gap might be as short as a second, yet it’s long enough to be dangerous. Pair devices in the workplace or at home to prevent exposing yourself to this danger and to boost Bluetooth protection.
This just has to be done once per coupling. The gap is closed after the connection is authorised. Bluetooth eavesdropping is less likely when you connect privately.
Even if you’re on the run and your gadgets become unpaired (it happens), avoid the desire to rejoin them in public.
If you can’t go back to the workplace, remember the 50-meter rule and locate a quiet place to connect.
Hide your internet connection
If a gadget has Bluetooth enabled, it will advertise its existence to all other devices within range. This is known as being ‘discoverable.’ Of course, being discoverable is required when attempting to link with another device. To prevent Bluetooth eavesdropping, set your settings to ‘undiscoverable’ while you are not actively looking to connect to a device. You may still use Bluetooth, but no one else will be able to locate your device in a list. If you aren’t using Bluetooth, switch it off altogether until you do. This will give further Bluetooth security.
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EC-MSP are one of the most trusted IT support providers in London. If you would like more help advice and support with technology for your business, contact us today to see how we can help.
