This particular vulnerability is the result of weak encryption. Main issues: A critical security flaw could allow a hacker to seize total control of the plug and the power going to the connected device.

Next steps: If you’re using this smart plug, Which? recommends you unplug it and stop using it immediately.

Main issues: A poorly-designed plug poses a fire risk, especially to homes with older wiring.

Nine of 10 smart plugs tested had issues, and a total of 13 vulnerabilities were pinpointed altogether. They ranged from popular brands like TP-Link and Hive to lesser-known brands like Hictkon, Meross and Ajax Online. Even worse? Some design flaws may even start a fire.Īs part of the study, Which? bought 10 smart plugs from popular online retailers for testing. It turns out that some of the cheap smart plugs found on online marketplaces can come with critical security issues that expose you to hackers. The U.K.-based organization Which? recently completed a study into smart plugs, and what it found was quite troubling.

If you’re using smart plugs in your home, you may want to take note of the issue. A recent study found some major security flaws with the smart plugs it tested. Tap or click to find out eight practical smart plug uses.īut, while smart plugs make it simple to save on electricity or light your home, it turns out they can also cause some problems. Or, do you constantly forget to turn off the lamps in your den? Set your smart plugs to do it for you.

Want to set a timer for your Christmas lights? Smart plugs can do that. These handy outlet plugs are a lot more useful than you’d think. Smart plugs may not be the first item you think of when you’re checking out smart gadgets, but maybe they should be.

Gosund smart plug set up