Hidden Backdoor Discovered In Chinese IoT Devices, Leaving Them Open To Exploitation

Security researchers announced  that they have discovered Chinese IoT devices containing a hidden backdoor. This enables access by the manufacturer and leaves the devices open to exploitation by others, which despite the researchers following the responsible disclosure process, has repeatedly been left exposed by the vendor. Zach Lanier, research director at Cylance commented below.

Zach Lanier, Research Director at Cylance:

“Unfortunately, this is not an isolated issue. Network devices from manufacturers all over the world have fallen prey to attackers time and time again – often by way of backdoor services and accounts. These backdoors are often present under the guise of providing “remote administration” or “support”, but occasionally for more nefarious purposes.

 What’s frustrating about this particular instance is the vendor’s response to Trustwave’s findings: “security through obscurity” is not the way to go, nor is cutting off communications with researchers who are trying to disclose something. Trying to “hide” something like this is what brings about the “Streisand Effect” – it will only draw more attention.

 Chances are high that we’ll continue to see more of the same as far as backdoors go, especially as IoT-esque devices proliferate.”