The FBI has issued a warning about three signs that your smart device may have been compromised by hackers. Smart devices, including TVs, fridges, thermostats, and children's toys, are vulnerable to cyber attacks if connected to your Wi-Fi network.
According to an FBI bulletin, cyber actors actively seek out vulnerable Internet of Things (IoT) devices to use as proxies for routing malicious traffic. This can make it appear as though illegal activity is originating from your home.
The first sign is a sudden increase in data usage. A malware infection on a smart device can cause a spike in traffic as it sends spam emails or attacks websites. If you notice one device using significantly more data than usual, it may be compromised.
Second, your internet service provider may contact you about unusual data usage. If they report an increase when you haven't changed your online habits, it could indicate someone else is using your network.
Finally, you might experience slower internet speeds or lag. While this can be due to normal factors, a sudden slowdown for no apparent reason may be a sign of unauthorised activity on your network.
