Zurich, Switzerland – Over three million smart toothbrushes have been hacked and turned into botnets, causing millions of Euros in damages to a Swiss company’s website, according to a recent report. The attack has raised concerns about the vulnerability of internet-connected devices and the need for improved cybersecurity measures.
The toothbrushes, which would normally be used for tracking and improving oral hygiene habits, were infected with malware and repurposed to carry out a Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attack on the company’s website. The attack resulted in the collapse of the website and significant financial losses for the company.
Stefan Zuger, a cybersecurity expert at Fortinet, emphasized the importance of protecting all internet-connected devices from potential cyber attacks. He warned that every device connected to the internet is a potential target for hackers and emphasized the need for continuous vigilance and security updates to protect against vulnerabilities.
Zuger’s comments highlight the ongoing battle between device manufacturers and cyber criminals, with hackers continually probing for weaknesses in connected devices. The incident serves as a reminder of the growing threat posed by the Internet of Things (IoT) and the need for robust cybersecurity measures to safeguard against such attacks.
The report did not specify the brands of the infected toothbrushes, raising concerns about the potential vulnerability of a wide range of smart devices. It also underscores the need for greater awareness and protection against cyber threats in an increasingly interconnected world. The incident serves as a cautionary tale about the potential risks of interconnected devices and the urgent need for improved cybersecurity measures.