We all know computers can be hacked, and in lots of disturbingly innovative ways, too. Our data is at risk if we don’t take steps to protect it. But surely the last thing you need to worry about is your e-cigarette being hacked?
You’d think so, but if you have an e-cigarette that can be charged via a USB connection, you may well charge it while you’re using your computer. And that means there is the potential for your innocent-looking e-cig to trigger a malware problem in your computer.
Is this possible?
Yes, although not in the way it would be if you plugged in a memory stick. The memory in an e-cig is miniscule, so while a hacker could happily put malware on a memory stick, they couldn’t put it in an electronic cigarette. They could, however, put something on there that would connect with malware online if that cigarette was plugged into a USB slot to charge via a computer.
Is it easy to prevent anything untoward from happening?
Thankfully, yes, if you employ some good old common sense. For example, make sure you buy your e-cig from a reputable source, and never let anyone you don’t know or trust use it or take it for any reason. This should be all that’s needed to protect your data, your e-cig, and your computer.
And if you want to be super-careful, charge it via a USB port that isn’t on your computer. And don’t let someone you don’t know charge their e-cig via your computer either. If you stick to those rules, you should be just fine.
What’s your opinion on this unlikely but possible route for hackers to exploit? Do you think it could become a bigger problem in the future? Share your thoughts here.
