Hacking is not just for computers: 5 items you may not think are hackable

“….by means of electric media, we set up a dynamic by which all previous technologies — including cities — will be translated into information systems” – Marshall McLuhan, 1964

The Internet of things, a development in which everyday objects have connectivity allowing them to send and receive data, is an exciting concept. It’s something we’ve been working towards and looking forward to even before everyone got excited about the possibility of phones in our cars. We’ve come a long way.

Unfortunately, when devices can send and receive data, they are susceptible to hacking. So what everyday objects can be hacked today? It’s an interesting list!

1. Cats – OK, your cat can’t technically be hacked, but there is buzz about the government using cats for spies, equipping them with audio transmitting devices. Apparently cats can be trained to move short distances. This might be news to cat owners everywhere; getting cats to cooperate might be harder than gaining information the old fashioned way.

2. Baby monitors – These monitors are as easy to hack when they’re hooked into a home’s wireless that has weak or no passwords set. If a monitor is set up with a webcam and speakers, hackers can see and speak to your baby.

3. Cars – That computer in your car is hackable too. Your breaks and steering could be compromised by nothing more than a hacker on a laptop. Dozens of models are susceptible including Cadillac Escalades and Jeep Cherokees.

4. Television – Your smart TV could be spying on your family. A smart TV is just like a regular PC, except is has a much larger screen, like a smartphone with constant watch over whatever is happening in one room.

5. Toilets – Maybe the most interesting on this list, not only are fancy Japanese toilets making their way to the United States, they’re also hackable with an Android app. You may not mind hackers randomly flushing your smart toilet, but activating the bidet function at random might cause more consternation.

With household appliances and pets open for hacking, it’s starting to feel like there isn’t anything out there that can’t be hacked. The more connected we become, the harder it is to protect our privacy.

What do you think; is living in a more connected world scary or exciting despite security and privacy issues? Is the world ready for this level of connection?