ESET launches ESET Smart TV Security to protect against rising malware threats

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IT security leader ESET today launched ESET Smart TV Security, a technology solution that protects against targeted malware attacks on connected TVs and other devices on the Android TV operating system.

According to recent data, there may be as many as 30 billion devices connected to the internet by 2020. While these gadgets bring numerous benefits to households, they also pose a threat to the everyday lives of consumers. Smart TVs in particular – with built-in microphones, cameras and USB ports – are increasingly becoming prime targets for malware attacks. By gaining control over a smart TV, cybercriminals can not only attack other devices on the user’s home network but also spy on individuals to gather sensitive and personal data.

“Given the risks to security and privacy, consumers need to think about protecting smart home devices in the same way they would protect their laptops, tablets or mobiles – they cannot treat them like an average TV, kettle, or watch,” said Branislav Orlik, Mobile Security Product Manager at ESET.

Smart TVs with the Android TV operating system will also undoubtedly contribute to the spread of Android ransomware, which has already been persistently targeting Android devices for a number of years. The threat has now crossed over to Android TVs, as incidents of smart TV screen-locks and ransom demands reported in the news have illustrated.

ESET Smart TV Security protects consumers with a variety of security features, including:

  • Antivirus protection safeguards against increasing levels of Android malware.
  • Anti-ransomware technology combats screen-locks. If ransomware is activated, users are advised to switch their smart TV off/on while the virus database is updated and scanning is initiated. When ESET Smart TV Security detects ransomware on the device, the user is advised to uninstall the malware. Once uninstall is confirmed, the ransomware will be cleared.
  • Multi-device scanning formalware on devices and USBs that connect to the smart TV.
  • Anti-phishing to protect users from attempts to steal sensitive, personal information. This feature will be available only in the premium version of ESET Smart TV Security.

ESET’s Smart TV Security is available to download via Google Play, and can only be downloaded from a user’s TV device. Once installed, users will be protected by ESET across their entire Android ecosystem – both smartphone and TV.

The release of ESET Smart TV at Mobile World Congress 2018 coincides with an ESET research report also released today. The report entitled “IoT and Privacy by Design in the Smart Home,” investigates popular IoT devices on the market today, and uncovers issues with their security and privacy. Details on that report are found here.

 

ESET’s experts will be at MobileFocus Global, PEPCOM‘s annual media event, on Monday, February 26 at 7:00pm CET (Fairmont Rey Juan Carlos I Hotel) to conduct a live demonstration of how ESET Smart TV Security protects against cyberattacks. ESET will also be demonstrating this solution at Mobile World Congress in Hall 7. Find out more by visiting ESET’s dedicated MWC website here. ESET will also be on hand to discuss the findings from the “IoT and Privacy by Design in the Smart Home” research report.

About ESET

For 30 years, ESET® has been developing industry-leading IT security software and services for businesses and consumers worldwide. With solutions ranging from endpoint and mobile security to encryption and two-factor authentication, ESET’s high-performing, easy-to-use products give consumers and businesses the peace of mind to enjoy the full potential of their technology. ESET unobtrusively protects and monitors 24/7, updating defenses in real time to keep users safe and businesses running without interruption. Evolving threats require an evolving IT security company. Backed by R&D facilities worldwide, ESET became the first IT security company to earn 100 Virus Bulletin VB100 awards, identifying every single “in-the-wild” malware without interruption since 2003. For more information, visit www.eset.com or follow us on LinkedInFacebook and Twitter.

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Media Contact:

Anna Keeve

ESET North America

Anna.Keeve@eset.com

619.405.5175