2 Million Android Devices Including Smart TVs Were Secretly Used in Hacking Network
Millions of Android devices, including smart TVs and streaming boxes, were infected and used without owners knowing. The network has been shut down.
Source
BleepingComputer
Original headline: NetNut proxy network disrupted, 2 million infected devices cut off
Plain-English summary by GetCyberRight. Read the full report at the source above.
A joint operation involving Google has shut down NetNut, a network that secretly took control of millions of Android devices. The network included 2 million infected devices such as smart TVs and streaming boxes. These devices were used as a proxy network without their owners' knowledge or permission.
If you own an Android smart TV, streaming box, or other Android device, it may have been part of this infected network. Your device could have been used to route internet traffic for others without you knowing. This can slow down your device, increase your internet usage, and potentially expose your home network to security risks.
Stay one step ahead of scammers
Weekly cybersecurity briefings for families. No spam, just the threats that matter and what to do about them.
Take these steps right away:
- Restart your Android smart TV, streaming box, or Android device by unplugging it for 30 seconds.
- Check for and install any available software updates on all your Android devices.
- Review what apps are installed on your Android TV and streaming devices, and remove any you do not recognize or use.
- Change the passwords on your home Wi-Fi network and any accounts linked to these devices. To stay protected, only download apps from official app stores like Google Play. Avoid sideloading apps from unknown websites. Keep all your devices updated with the latest software. Use strong, unique passwords for your Wi-Fi network. Consider restarting your smart devices monthly to clear out potential problems.
Curated from trusted cybersecurity sources by GetCyberRight
Source: BleepingComputerStay ahead of cyber threats
Get our free weekly digest. Real threats, plain language, what to do about them. No spam, ever.
More articles
2 Million Android Devices Were Secretly Turned Into Hacking Tools: Check Your Devices
A network called NetNut infected 2 million Android devices including smart TVs and streaming boxes, using them without permission to route internet traffic.
2 min read
Summer Phone Sales Are Here: How to Shop Safely for Deals
Major retailers are offering Fourth of July discounts on smartphones. These sales are legitimate, but scammers also use fake deals to trick shoppers during holiday sales.
2 min readShopping Holiday Phone Deals? Watch Out for Common Scams
Big sales events bring both genuine deals and scammers trying to steal your money or personal information.
2 min read
Australian Families See Safer Online Environment as Businesses Face New Pressure
Better security rules in Australia mean families face less cybercrime risk. Businesses now carry more responsibility for keeping customer information safe.
2 min read