BullGuard Launches IoT Scanner, the World's First Security Scanner for the Internet of Things
LONDON, June 7, 2016 /PRNewswire/ --
BullGuard [http://www.bullguard.com ], an industry-leading internet security vendor,
has today announced a world first with the launch of BullGuard IoT Scanner - a powerful
free tool for consumers that reveals connected devices that could be vulnerable to
hackers.
BullGuard IoT Scanner allows anyone to quickly scan to see if their smart devices or
network are accessible to hackers. If a user's smart device is flagged as being vulnerable,
details about the specific security issues are provided.
"The Internet of Things has moved rapidly from an early adopter market into the
mainstream, but in doing so has introduced a range of new security concerns for consumers,
" said Paul Lipman, CEO, BullGuard."We've made an important first step towards addressing
these issues with IoT Scanner, a tool that allows anyone to check if smart devices in
their home are secure."
A recent BullGuard survey of over 6,000 UK consumers
[http://www.bullguard.com/press/latest-press-releases/2016/03-17.aspx ] underlines the
scale of the problem and the concerns that many people have about the security of their
smart devices. 66% of survey respondents said they are highly concerned about the security
of connected devices, while 72% do not know how to secure them properly. The problem is
set to accelerate with over 25% respondents saying they are planning on buying more smart
devices in the coming 12 months.
BullGuard's IoT Scanner uses data from Shodan.io, the first search engine for internet
connected devices, to scan for vulnerable smart devices and presents results in a
straightforward way that anyone can understand. This includes security cameras, baby
monitors, Smart TVs and wearables that may be visible to hackers. If accessible devices
are found, they are flagged along with details of potential vulnerabilities. An email
report of scan results can help to diagnose problems further, and users can share
notification of successful scans with friends and family to encourage them to protect
their own smart devices.
BullGuard has also created a free, downloadable IoT guide
[https://www.bullguard.com/marketingfiles/ext/web/IoT-Consumer_Guide.pdf ] for consumers,
which contains further information on Internet of Things security along with help and
advice on how to ensure connected devices are not visible to hackers.
"The responsibility for ensuring that connected devices are secure is shared between
consumers, manufacturers and security vendors, and it's important that each does their
part," Lipman added. "We have developed the BullGuard IoT Scanner to put consumers in
control. It's fast, easy and free, and offers vital peace of mind."
BullGuard IoT Scanner is a web-based application available on any platform and all
major browsers.
BullGuard is a fast growing antimalware and mobile security brand. Its award-winning
product portfolio includes internet security solutions, mobile security, 24/7 identity
protection, and social media protection for both home and small business users, including
BullGuard Premium Protection - a unique suite that goes beyond the PC to safeguard
personal and financial information by continually monitoring the web, social networks, as
well as the dark web for stolen and compromised data sources. BullGuard is also a pioneer
in Internet of Things and connected device security for consumers, releasing the world's
first vulnerability checker and actively researching and advising on issues surrounding
IoT security.