Myth:
“Fresh out of the box means free from hackers, right?”
Reality:
Brand-new devices, from smart TVs and routers to work laptops, can already have known vulnerabilities, outdated firmware, or even pre-installed malware. Recent breaches have shown attackers targeting unpatched smart devices and even shipping malware-infected tech around the globe. In July 2025, over 10 million smart TVs were found to be compromised by malware that was either pre-installed at the factory or downloaded during initial setup. Hackers then hijacked these devices as part of a global botnet.
What to Do Next:
🚦 Always update software and firmware on all new devices before connecting to your network.
🔒 Change default passwords immediately, and never reuse them elsewhere.
🛡️ Scan new devices for vulnerabilities with your cybersecurity tools.
📋 Register your device with the manufacturer to get urgent security updates.
For urgent questions, reach out to Bernie Orglmeister for a free consultation at support@skyviewtek.com or call 610-590-5006. Get expert help today!