Closing the curtains in your living room may not close the doors on potential hackers. At a demonstration Friday in Las Vegas, researchers showed an audience of children at Defcon Kids how a Samsung Smart TV can be hacked.
So-called smart TVs have an operating system installed that is similar to a smartphone, which hosts third-party apps. People can browse the Internet, launch apps and take photos using their remote controls.
Presented by security engineers Aaron Grattafiori and Josh Yavor of iSEC Partners, the exploit works by inserting malicious JavaScript code into text boxes in apps, like a Skype chat window or Facebook comments.
The researchers told CBSNews.com that the more dynamic a website is, the more opportunities there are for inserting code. They point out that the problem is not with the apps but with the way they were designed for Samsung's Smart TV.
Grattafiori said that they tested their exploit on Samsung Smart TVs because they offer the most features, which create more of an opportunity to find security flaws. He added that they have yet to try out other smart TVs.
One of the immediate questions that arises is whether the TV can turn its camera on its owner and open a gateway for home surveillance. The researchers say that a hacker could potentially take control of the TV's camera and remain undetected.
"They could actually either see live, streaming video into your home or office or to take still camera shots of you," Grattafiori said about potential hackers. "There's no physical indicator, nor visual indicator, that you'd be able to know your camera was on or taking pictures of you."
Grattafiori said that they've reached out to Samsung about their findings, and the company has been responsive to their research. It's unclear if the security flaw can be found in TVs made by other manufacturers.
A spokesperson for Samsung told CBSNews.com that the company is aware of the security issues regarding the Smart TV and has released a software update to resolve the issue. The company says it is taking measures to vigorously enhance security and protect its customers' privacy.
iSEC Partners initially presented their findings at the Black Hat conference this week, along with an exploit to Verizon's femtocell that lets hackers take control of mini cell phone towers. Other researchers showed how cyber-criminals could hack into "smart home" control systems. They also exposed vulnerabilities in iPhone chargers, driverless cars and other high-tech devices.
Chris Brown and Nicki Minaj linked up in Los Angeles on Friday (August 2nd) to shoot a music video for their collaboration "Love More." The song will appear on Chris' forthcoming album titled X. Peep some photos from the set courtesy of Rap-Up.
Philadephia rapper Chic Raw teams up with Spade-O to drop an official music video for their collaboration "Coming For Me." Directed by Hyspeed with Siight Effex Cinema and Grand Marq Films
Young Money/Militia Gang emcee Cory Gunz releases a new music video in support of his latest mixtape, That's WTF I'm Talkin Bout. This new clip is for the D-Roc-produced "Baraka." Directed by by www.ProfittProductions.com @Tha_Profitt.
With the murder rate continuing to clime in Chicago the city has turned to former gang members to help with the problem.
At least 252 people have been killed in Chicago so far in 2013. In 2012 there were 506 murders in the Windy City. Most of the deaths can be attributed to gang violence.
The city has spent $1 million to hire CeaseFire, a violence prevention program consisting of ex-gang members with the hope they can broker truces between gangs.
Thisis50 & Young Jack Thriller recently spoke with Editor-In-Chief of Hip Hop Weekly magazine, Cynthia Horner for an exclusive interview!
Cynthia Horner introduces herself to the world, remembers being part of "Right On" magazine, knowing the Jacksons, knowing Prince and remembers ignoring his calls, meeting New Edition, Soul Train & much more!
Former Infamous Mobb member Ty Nitty pays homage to Queensbridge, New York in his latest official music for "The Foundation." Check out the clip below and make sure you follow Ty on Twitter @TYNITTYMOBB.
Juicy J is preparing to release his solo album Stay Trippy on August 27th. The Taylor Gang rapper decides to give the fans some new music while they wait. Check out "August 27th Flow" produced by Juicy and Crazy Mike.
We The Best emcee Vado keeps the dope music coming as he prepares to release his Slime Flu 4 mixtape. The Harlem native teams up with Pusha T, French Montana and Chinx Drugz for "Till My Wrist Hurt (Copy)."
Producer/rapper Jahlil Beats links up Re-Up Gang emcee Ab-Liva and Akhen for a dope new track titled "Cruising On Red Leather." Be on the lookout for Jahlil's forthcoming project Genius, dropping next week.
Bow Wow and Tyra Banks had social media jumping after they kissed on BET's 106 and Park earlier this week. Boweezy chopped it up with Real Talk New York about locking lips with the legendary model, possible future romance and explains why age is nothing but a number.
Before Jay Z premiered his new music video for "Picasso Baby" on HBO, he stopped by Real Time with Bill Maher. Hov discusses Magna Carta Holy Grail, his conflict with Harry Belafonte, wanting President Obama to induct him into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame if he's inducted, the disparity between the haves and the have nots, politics, religion and more.
Roscoe Dash is back with a new freestyle. He recruits Spiff for a remix of Rich Homie Quan's"Type of Way." Check the track out up top and download it below. Let us know what you think of the remix in the comment section.
Curren$y a.k.a. Spitta Andretti brings his Jet Life team together to release this new mixtape titled "Red Eye." The project contains thirteen new tunes. Spitta, Young Roddy, Cornerboy P, Juvenile, Fiend and more contribute.
Houston rapper Riff Raff a.k.a. Jody High Roller stopped by Sway in the Morning recently to try his hand at the "5 Fingers of Death." Check out the the former MTV star doing his thing below. When he was finished several listeners called in to respond. Peep the exchange between Riff Raff and his haters.
Meek Mill is working on his Dreamchasers 3 mixtape. The Philly emcee took a break long enough to drop a freestyle over A$AP Ferg's "Work" instrumental for HipHopSince1987. Shot by Rick Dange.