Cheap Smart Glasses Can Be Hijacked Over Bluetooth. Here's What That Means

If you've been thinking about buying a pair of budget smart glasses, there's a security gap you should know about before you do. Researchers found that some affordable smart glasses models can be taken over remotely through their Bluetooth connection. An attacker doesn't need your password or access to your phone. They just need to be physically close by.

What's at risk

When a hacker gains access to your smart glasses this way, they can see what your glasses see. That means any photos or videos you've recorded are exposed. They can also reach personal data stored on the device itself. For glasses that sync with your phone, this could potentially create a doorway to your broader digital life.

The good news is that this requires the attacker to be nearby and actively targeting you. It's not a threat that works over the internet from across the world. But it does mean that budget models, the ones marketed as inexpensive alternatives to premium brands, cut corners on security in ways that matter.

What you can do

If you own smart glasses already, check the manufacturer's website for any security updates and install them. Keep your Bluetooth turned off when you're not actively using the glasses. When you do use them, pair them only in places you trust. If you're shopping for smart glasses, read the specs carefully. Look for models that mention security updates or that come from manufacturers with a track record of patching problems. Spending a bit more often means better security practices built in from the start. You can enjoy new technology without taking unnecessary risks. This is a solvable problem, not a reason to avoid smart glasses altogether.