The latest Wikileaks release of over 9000 pages of data confirms that the CIA and allied agencies are able to use vulnerabilities (that they refuse to disclose) to hack any Apple iPhone or Android device. Furthermore, the documents reveal that popular messaging services that are believed to be secure, such as WhatsApp, are also hackable.
WhatsApp was recently added to the list of approved services for sensitive and classified communication in Australia and it’s the service of choice for Malcolm Turnbull and other parliamentarians for sharing private information.
The document leaks come just a few days after Donald Trump accused the previous administration of wiretapping his devices.
Cyber security expert Professor Nigel Phair from the University of Canberra is unsure as to how normal people are supposed to protect themselves anymore.
“Any advice I would have normally given has been blown out of the water by the Vault 7 revelations,” he told news.com.au.
The documents reveal numerous technologies that are prone to hacking. Apple and Android products were at the top of the list, with hackers being able to record conversations and use front and back operating cameras without the target knowing. It was also alleged that the CIA are able to use Smart TVs in “Fake-Off” mode to record conversations in the room.
The most serious information revealed was that the CIA was looking at a way to hack and remotely control vehicles, something that has been proven achievable in the past few years.
“As of October 2014 the CIA was also looking at infecting the vehicle control systems used by modern cars and trucks,” Wikileaks said in a statement.
“The purpose of such control is not specified, but it would permit the CIA to engage in nearly undetectable assassinations.”
What do you think? Should the CIA and other agencies be held accountable for breaching the privacy of its citizens and the world’s privacy? Do you feel safe and secure online?
Read more at news.com.au
Originally published as CIA document leak confirms smartphone vulnerabilities
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