Exploiting Known Vulnerabilities of a Smart Thermostat

Exploiting Known Vulnerabilities

Two researchers have disclosed flaws in a common model of a smart thermostat. These flaws are proof-of-concept attacks that demand payment of a ransom in exchange for access to a victim’s data. The researchers found that Trane thermostats were affected and that Trane had patched the flaws by early July. The researchers did not disclose the exact vulnerability of the Trane thermostats that they analyzed.

Interestingly, the device’s OS is a Linux-based operating system, and it has an SD card for custom settings and wallpapers. A malicious hacker can hide malware on the SD card’s application and system files to trick users into downloading malware. Once installed, the malware has full control of the device. This is why the attacker blurred the user’s IP and password. The attacker could then use the credentials to control the thermostat.

The most common purpose of IoT malware is to create a botnet of zombie devices. These devices are used for various purposes including denial-of-service attacks and audio harassment. Malware authors search for default passwords and exploits to target smart devices. Smart thermostats are not as large a pool as other devices, but they can still be controlled and manipulated to cause physical discomfort or even damage to the target environment.

In fact, it is possible to remotely hack an EcoBee or Nest thermostat using software written by a TrapX Security researcher. The researchers found that if the attacker has physical access to the device, he or she can install a custom operating system that can affect the thermostat’s performance. In addition, the researchers found that the software used by Nest can be easily known exploited vulnerabilities if it is already being used.

Exploiting Known Vulnerabilities of a Smart Thermostat

The researchers were able to compromise WiFi thermostats for ransom. With this knowledge, they can manipulate the HVAC systems to freeze and melt occupants. Furthermore, the researchers were able to hack an occupant’s computer by infecting a smart thermostat from hundreds of miles away. The hackers then demanded payment in Bitcoins, a currency that can be exchanged for data. The threat is real, so be vigilant and secure your devices.

Another vulnerability in the Trane ComfortLink thermostat is hardcoded administrator credentials. The researcher discovered that this flaw allows an attacker to control heating and cooling in a home and even observe family schedules. While the Trane ComfortLink thermostats are marketed as the poster children of the internet of things, they are still not without risks. A Trane ComfortLink thermostat is a perfect example of a compromised device.

The vulnerabilities have a wide range of impacts and could allow an attacker to access personal information. For example, an attacker could obtain the temperature of a room by triggering an arbitrary code execution or accessing the user’s webcams. The attack also requires an attacker to know a person’s email address, phone number, or alternate email. The security measures in the Nest thermostat have been remediated by Google and Nest, but there is still a risk of identity theft.