Bluetooth Headset Vulnerabilities Reminder...

As I find another one of my hands-free bluetooth headsets in the washing machine again (yes, again, I think this is #11 or #12) I wanted to remind everyone about the risks associated with using bluetooth devices.

With the new laws here in California that require drivers to use hands-free devices while driving, I'm starting to see more and more people using bluetooth. I see them on the road, in restaurants, at work (sometimes connected to work phones) and I wonder if the "wireless" freedom is worth the risk that comes with bluetooth.

Most of you know that bluetooth hacking isn't anything new. We all remember reading about celebrities cell phones getting hacked, and having all the contacts and SMS messages stolen. What I don't think we all remember is that were are all at risk too. With smartphones and PDA's becoming cheaper, everyone is getting one. I see teenagers to soccer moms with Blackberry's. I see students and business professionals with iPhones. Now you don't need a smartphone to have all your contacts and SMS data stolen. Any cell phone with bluetooth enabled is open for attack. What smartphones adds is the access to more sensitive and private data. All that useful information you keep on your smartphone or PDA? Well if you have bluetooth enabled it might be open to attack.

So as I sit here wondering if I am going to go and get another bluetooth headset, I'm thinking about about what I use it for and what the pro's and con's will be if I switched to a wired headset. Oh, and if you think that the only risk is someone stealing SMS messages from your spouse or you mom's phone number, watch this clip. That cool bluetooth headset is also a bug that can broadcast everything you say and hear even when your not on a call. All I have to say is forget Big Brother worry about that innocent looking guy with the backpack and PDA.

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1c-jzYAH2gw

I would like to know how many of you enable bluetooth and if your worried about privacy or data theft? Please post your thoughts and ideas in the comments.