You’re making a big TV mistake that could cost you dearly – check your TV today

MILLIONS of TV owners have been warned they may be in danger.

If you don’t update your TV regularly, you risk being hacked.

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The same goes for all “smart” gadgets in the home, cyber pundits have said The sun.

“We don’t tend to think of smart home devices like TVs or home assistants like Alexa as cyber threats, but that’s wrong,” said Jamie Akhtar, CEO of CyberSmart.

“Because these devices connect to the internet, they are another entry point for cybercriminals into your home.

The gadgets and devices you buy at home are increasingly “smart”.

And the fact that many of these household items are connected to the internet can wreak havoc.

Even if you update regularly, tech companies can “retire” certain products after just a few years.

Therefore, it is important to ensure that your home gadgets continue to receive updates.

Jamie told The Sun: “Always make sure your tech is running the latest updates.

“Manufacturers release these updates or patches to close security vulnerabilities in device software.

“If left unpatched, these vulnerabilities can provide cybercriminals with an easy way to take over your devices.

Second, make sure your home network (which the device connects to) is secure. Always use a firewall and antivirus software as they stop most attacks at the source.

“Finally, be careful with additional software or applications that you download onto your devices.

“Cyber ​​criminals are known to use games and other applications to deliver malware to users’ devices.

“Always download apps games from reputable sources such as Apple or Android web shops.”

That’s not all.

When you buy a new TV — or any other smart device — you need to check the settings right away.

Otherwise, you could be exposing yourself to unnecessary risk.

Speaking to The Sun, Javvad Malik, Lead Security Awareness Advocate at KnowBe4, revealed exactly why it’s so serious.

“One of the most important things you need to do once you’ve bought a smart device like a smart TV is to change the default password on it,” Javvad told us.

“Since it is one of the most common methods criminals use to gain access to your device.

“If possible, enable 2-factor authentication so that you not only need your password to log in, but also a second code, which is usually sent to your phone via SMS or app.”

And there’s a simple fix that’s definitely worth considering.

Do you really need a “smart” kettle or toaster when a regular one will do?

Every time you add a connected device to your home, you increase the risk of a hacker breaking into your networks.

“People should consider whether the device they have needs to be connected to the internet at all,” revealed Javvad.

“The Internet connection is often intended for new functions.

“By not connecting devices unnecessarily, you can minimize the digital footprint that criminals can access.”

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