CarderPlanet
Professional
Who would have thought that HDMI could become a spy?
Recently, an iPhone HDMI adapter has appeared on the market, which looks very similar to the original Apple product. However, when the device is connected, the user is prompted to scan a QR code that redirects to a site full of ads. This site asks you to download an app that requires access to your geodata, photos, and videos and sets tracking cookies. The app also informs the user that all their data is being sent to China.
The adapter was discovered by John Bumstead, a friend of 404 Media. Bumstead, who is involved in the restoration of electronics, said that he bought the device from one of the processors of used electronics. Despite the fact that this HDMI adapter is not a spy device, unlike some other cables, it can still be dangerous for users.
When the adapter is connected to the monitor, a QR code, serial number, and the "LIVE TV" logo appear on the screen. After scanning the code, the user gets to the website of the company EZ Cast, which claims to have more than 10 million users worldwide. However, as it turned out, the security of this company's devices leaves much to be desired.
When attempting to use the EZ Cast app, the user is asked to grant a variety of permissions, including access to personal information, geodata, photos, and even Bluetooth. At the same time, the app constantly displays ads and requires various permissions to perform even the simplest actions.
It is worth noting that the appearance of such an adapter becomes especially relevant against the background of the Federal Trade Commission's lawsuit against Amazon for clogging up the site with advertising and making it difficult to find the right products. Some Reddit users have already expressed their dissatisfaction with this adapter, claiming that they purchased it on Amazon.
Recently, an iPhone HDMI adapter has appeared on the market, which looks very similar to the original Apple product. However, when the device is connected, the user is prompted to scan a QR code that redirects to a site full of ads. This site asks you to download an app that requires access to your geodata, photos, and videos and sets tracking cookies. The app also informs the user that all their data is being sent to China.
The adapter was discovered by John Bumstead, a friend of 404 Media. Bumstead, who is involved in the restoration of electronics, said that he bought the device from one of the processors of used electronics. Despite the fact that this HDMI adapter is not a spy device, unlike some other cables, it can still be dangerous for users.
When the adapter is connected to the monitor, a QR code, serial number, and the "LIVE TV" logo appear on the screen. After scanning the code, the user gets to the website of the company EZ Cast, which claims to have more than 10 million users worldwide. However, as it turned out, the security of this company's devices leaves much to be desired.
When attempting to use the EZ Cast app, the user is asked to grant a variety of permissions, including access to personal information, geodata, photos, and even Bluetooth. At the same time, the app constantly displays ads and requires various permissions to perform even the simplest actions.
It is worth noting that the appearance of such an adapter becomes especially relevant against the background of the Federal Trade Commission's lawsuit against Amazon for clogging up the site with advertising and making it difficult to find the right products. Some Reddit users have already expressed their dissatisfaction with this adapter, claiming that they purchased it on Amazon.
