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There's A Virus That Can Spread Via Bluetooth So Turn It Off Now

There's A Virus That Can Spread Via Bluetooth So Turn It Off Now

You've been warned.

Michael Minay

Michael Minay

For the battery savers and the cautious among us, this is of no concern as our Bluetooth is very rarely on. But for those who like to have every option open on their phone, this article may be of interest.

Tech experts have issued a warning about a virus which can spread through nearly every gadget in the world via a Bluetooth connection.

Unlike most viruses where it's downloaded through a dodgy file or a dodgy website, this virus just needs your Bluetooth switched on. It's known as BlueBorne.

Credit: Armis

If Bluetooth is on, a hacker can connect to the device, take control and send you malicious software.

There are growing fears of ransomware, whereby the hackers will steal your naughty videos, personal photos, or, on a larger business-sized scale, crack into IT systems, and force payment for their safe return.

The hack was discovered by security company Armis, who illustrated the dangers behind the virus by describing how a delivery driver could infect a whole company.

Their demonstration shows how quickly, and easily, the malware could infect numerous phones.

Credit: PA

A spokeswoman says: "Imagine a delivery person with an infected device.

"He drops off packages at the bank which is typically a very secure location.

"But with BlueBorne, the infected device can connect to any device around it, such as a smartphone watch and laptop.

"As he continues to deliver packages, he unknowingly spreads malware at each stop during his day."

That hacker can now control phones, SmartTVs and medical devices.

Apple devices, running iOS software, have largely been exempt from major viruses in the past, but according to Armis, those devices plus Android are largely at risk.

Credit: PA

Charl van der Walt, chief strategy office at security company SecureData, suggested switching off Bluetooth on your phone when you're in a crowd.

He added: "Disable the capability, particularly in crowded areas, until a patch has been released from their device manufacturer or service provider.

"This will ensure devices are safer and less likely to be compromised in crowded environments, such as community, in office environments, or even walking down the street.

"While we haven't seen this 'in the wild' yet, particularly for Android users, it's more likely a case of not if, but when."

BlueBorne has the potential to spread to 5.3 billion devices worldwide, and, being as invisible as it is, victims won't have any idea until it's too late.

Imagine spending all that money on the new iPhone only to get it infected straight away, just because you had your new wireless headphones in?

Featured Image Credit: LADbible

Topics: Hack, Phones and Gadgets