Some Security Concerns With Bluetooth Headset Technology

In 2005, with Bluetooth headset technology not yet ten years old, cyber criminals had already figured out ways to exploit it for fraud. Since then, a lot of security issues with Bluetooth headset technology have been addressed not only by Ericsson, the official manufacturer of Bluetooth products, but with many other name brands that can use Bluetooth headset technology. But you should still use common sense when using any Bluetooth device.

What's The Big Deal?

In case you are scratching your head and frantically trying to remember, "What is Bluetooth technology?" here's a brief summary. Bluetooth is the brand name for the wireless technology that allows electronic devices like laptops, cell phones, laser printers and iPods to communicate with each other over short distances.

Bluetooth headset technology is the most popular form of Bluetooth technology. They look like little space-age ear plugs worm into or over one ear. There are two-eared versions, but many people prefer to use just one ear for safety reasons, especially if they only use their Bluetooth headset technology to make them be able to use their cell phones without using their hands, too.

You need both a Bluetooth device and a cell phone in order to get your calls through. Someday there may be a complete cell phone already in Bluetooth headset technology, but we're not quite there yet. Keep in mind that you couldn’t text, watch movies or take pictures with such a phone. If would – well, it would only be a phone. Horrors!

The Problem

The security problem lies in the wireless nature of Bluetooth headset technology. Wireless technology is like a radio that works on broadcasting on radio waves. It's even called radio frequency identification. If you have a working radio, you can get any station if you tune into it right. And that's pretty much where the problem lies.

Many people already can listen in on other's messages and data information with their own Bluetooth devices, their laptops and a good encryption program. Viruses could even be transmitted to your Bluetooth headset technology devices. In theory, a hacker can gain access to your PC if it's hooked up to a Bluetooth device.

However, one of the advantages of current Bluetooth headset technology is that you have to be nearby in order to listen to transmit anything to another Bluetooth device. They would have to be within arm's reach of you. It is recommended you keep your eyes open for anyone near you before you use any electrical device.

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