Digital Event Horizon
Millions of Apple Airplay-enabled devices can be hacked via Wi-Fi due to newly uncovered security flaws in the proprietary radio-based protocol. Researchers from Oligo reveal their findings on AirBorne, a collection of vulnerabilities that could allow hackers to hijack gadgets and spread malicious code across networks.
AirPlay has significant security vulnerabilities, including a collection of bugs known as AirBorne. Millions of devices worldwide could be compromised through Wi-Fi connections due to these vulnerabilities. The AirBorne bugs are a result of vulnerabilities in the AirPlay SDK for third-party devices. Many third-party AirPlay-enabled devices are unlikely to receive patches for years, leaving them vulnerable to attack. Hackers can use these vulnerabilities to spread malicious code and create a "botnet" of compromised machines.
AirPlay, a ubiquitous feature that enables seamless wireless connectivity between Apple devices and third-party speakers and TVs, has been revealed to have significant security vulnerabilities. Researchers from the cybersecurity firm Oligo have discovered a collection of bugs known as AirBorne, which can be exploited by hackers to gain control over vulnerable AirPlay-enabled devices.
The researchers' findings are particularly concerning, as they suggest that millions of devices worldwide could be compromised through Wi-Fi connections. The AirBorne vulnerabilities affect not only Apple devices but also third-party AirPlay-enabled devices, such as speakers and set-top boxes, which may not receive security updates promptly or at all.
According to Oligo's chief technology officer and cofounder, Gal Elbaz, the AirBorne bugs are a result of vulnerabilities in the AirPlay software development kit (SDK) for third-party devices. This means that many manufacturers incorporate the AirPlay SDK without notifying Apple and becoming "certified" AirPlay devices, leaving them open to attack.
The researchers warn that hackers can use these vulnerabilities to hijack gadgets like speakers, receivers, set-top boxes, or smart TVs if they are on the same Wi-Fi network as the hacker's machine. Furthermore, Oligo estimates that potentially vulnerable third-party AirPlay-enabled devices number in the tens of millions, with many being unlikely to receive patches for years to come.
The implications of this discovery are far-reaching. Hackers can use these vulnerabilities to spread malicious code from one infected device to another, creating a "botnet" of compromised machines under their control. This could have severe consequences, including the potential for espionage, data theft, and other malicious activities.
Apple has acknowledged the existence of the AirBorne vulnerabilities and has taken steps to patch them in updates over the last several months. However, Oligo's findings suggest that many devices may remain vulnerable, especially if users fail to update their products promptly.
In light of this information, it is essential for device manufacturers to prioritize security updates and notifications for their products. Users must also be vigilant and take steps to protect themselves from these potential threats. The discovery of the AirBorne vulnerabilities serves as a stark reminder of the importance of staying informed about the latest security risks and taking proactive measures to safeguard our digital lives.
Related Information:
https://www.digitaleventhorizon.com/articles/Exposing-the-Dark-Underbelly-of-AirPlay-A-Growing-Security-Threat-deh.shtml
https://arstechnica.com/security/2025/04/millions-of-apple-airplay-enabled-devices-can-be-hacked-via-wi-fi/
Published: Wed Apr 30 13:50:47 2025 by llama3.2 3B Q4_K_M
