Bluetooth is often used to exchange data between two devices over a short distance. For example, if we want to transfer a file from one mobile phone to the other, we can do so using Bluetooth. We can use a Bluetooth-enabled headset with a mobile phone and listen to music or audio. Bluetooth is also used in a smart lock so that we can operate the lock using our mobile phone.
But, how secure is Bluetooth? We have already discussed Bluetooth security in several articles. In this article, we would discuss how to secure Bluetooth devices.
1. Turn off Bluetooth when it is not in use. Attackers often list the available Bluetooth devices in a public area and then use various tools and software to pair with those devices. So, turning off Bluetooth devices when it is not used is always a good piece of advice.
2. Configure the Bluetooth devices to use the lowest power that meets your needs. In doing so, attackers cannot communicate with a Bluetooth-enabled device from a distance beyond a certain limit. This may not eliminate the possibility of a cyberattack completely, but it will definitely reduce the likelihood of an attack.
3. Please ensure that your device is using the recent Bluetooth version. Attackers often exploit security vulnerabilities present in Bluetooth software to pair with a device illegitimately and later use that to spread malware or steal sensitive data from the device. Updating Bluetooth software with recent patches definitely reduces known security vulnerabilities present in the Bluetooth software.
4. Enable PIN while connecting with a Bluetooth device. This will encrypt the communication traffic and make the data more secure. Also, please use a random PIN and avoid using a weak PIN.
5. Use application-level encryption if needed. One can always encrypt the data before it gets transmitted through a Bluetooth connection. The received data, in that case, needs to be decrypted at the other end and then read.
6. An organization should change the default settings in a Bluetooth device and use settings that conform with the security policy of the organization.






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