Talk

Smart toy vulnerabilities can put your child at risk of abuse by strangers

April 25, 17:00 (CLOUD)

Smart devices are becoming an increasingly integral part of our lives with each passing year, and this trend extends to our children as well. Intelligent robot assistants, for instance, have found their way into our homes and are now interacting with our kids on a regular basis. However, amidst this digital revolution, cyber security challenges continue to loom large. As these smart devices become more interconnected and involved in our daily routines, it is crucial to address the vulnerabilities and safeguard our children’s privacy and online safety.

A small Android-based robot for kids ages 5 to 9, uses a wide-angle HD camera and hi-tech sensors to map distance and edges, facilitating movement. The manufacturers assert that the smart toy, equipped with a video camera and microphone, utilizes artificial intelligence that enables it not only to recognize and address children by name but also to respond to their mood, getting to know them better over time. Parents also need to download the appropriate app to take full advantage of the toy, which can entertain and educate through various gaming applications.
Researchers from Kaspersky have discovered vulnerabilities in a popular smart toy robot, which could potentially allow cybercriminals to take control and misuse it to secretly communicate with children through video chat, without the knowledge of their parents. The companion app for this robot risks compromising sensitive information including children’s names, genders, ages and even their locations.
In this session, we will present the results of our in-depth research into the security issues of this popular robot.

Speaker

Nikolay Frolov

Nikolay Frolov is a cybersecurity expert with over a decade of experience in the field. Currently serving as a Senior Researcher at Kaspersky's ICS CERT since 2021, he specializes in assessing and analyzing Industrial Control Systems. Nikolay's expertise extends to identifying threats targeting industrial automation systems, Industrial Internet of Things, and addressing security challenges in the automotive and mobile sectors. Alongside his impactful research, he imparts knowledge by teaching reverse engineering at the Moscow Engineering Physics Institute, contributing to the next generation of cybersecurity professionals.

Principal Security Researcher at Kaspersky ICS CERT. Has extensive professional experience in Cryptography and Computer Security, with a special interest in
reverse engineering and hardware.

Alexander Kozlov

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