What is bluebugging?

What is bluebugging and how does it work?

Bluetooth is one of the most popular ways to connect between devices wirelessly, whether it’s between smartphones, computers, or accessories like headphones and keyboards. Its ubiquity is what makes bluebugging attacks dangerous—unlike traditional cyber threats that exploit software vulnerabilities, bluebugging occurs when a hacker exploits a vulnerability in the Bluetooth connection. They accomplish this through specialized devices and software programs that can detect Bluetooth devices with vulnerable connections, usually within 30 feet around them.

Once a hacker makes this connection, they can then gain control of your phone without your knowledge. This means that your phone calls, messages, and even personal data can be breached and potentially leaked to unwanted sources—all while remaining undetected by you or your contacts.

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With your device opened to their control, hackers can manipulate it in various ways by installing malware that allows access to your device even if you’re not in their proximity. Like in many instances of malware, there’s even the possibility that they can access your device anytime in the future, or even take control of the device remotely. The goal is to mine as much information from your device without detection, much like traditional cyberattacks such as spyware and keyloggers.

How to prevent bluebugging

Fortunately, there are simple yet effective ways that you can keep your devices protected from a bluebugging attack. Keep these steps in mind to stay safe:

• Turn off Discovery Mode: By default, the Bluetooth setting on your smartphone is turned on to discover all devices nearby. Turn off Bluetooth when you’re not actively using it or change your settings to only recognize familiar devices. This will also ignore connection requests from unknown devices.
• Use strong passwords and PINs: Many Bluetooth connections require a PIN that must match both devices before you connect to them. If you have the option to set this yourself, choose a series of numbers that are random and varied enough that they can’t be easy to guess. The same applies to passcodes that unlock your phone. Modern security settings such as facial recognition and two-factor authentication can also keep your devices protected when they’re activated.
• Keep your devices updated: The Bluetooth protocol is always being updated to recognize and eliminate potential vulnerabilities. It is crucial to ensure that your device’s software is up to date, as this will also include updates to its Bluetooth firmware.
• Remove older devices: Whether you’re upgrading wireless devices, or you’ve lost a pair of earbuds, your old devices can still pose a risk. Select Forget this device under your Bluetooth settings to ensure that attackers can’t access and use them as a source for bluebugging.
• Don’t trust unknown devices: The devices around you may not be what they seem. Many Bluetooth-enabled devices have vague or unrecognizable names when they appear in the list of discoverable devices. Don’t connect to a device you’re not familiar with, especially in public spaces where the risk of bluebugging is higher.
• Avoid public Wi-Fi networks: These networks, which typically don’t require passwords, aren’t secured and can open your device to intruders. Consider using a VPN when logging in at a public place, which encrypts your connection and secures your device across all wireless inputs, including Bluetooth.

With so much of our information at stake on our mobile devices—especially our identities—the risks of a bluebugging attack can be vast. Taking caution when you’re out in public can keep you and your devices safe.