WLAN and Bluetooth are permanently switched on for many smartphones – mostly out of convenience. But this carries risks: unnoticed tracking, security gaps and unnecessary battery consumption are possible consequences.
Location through active radio connections
Many users believe that they can reliably hide their location by switching off GPS. But that’s a fallacy: even with deactivated GPS, smartphones can be located via WLAN and Bluetooth signals. As T3N.de reports, these connections enable surprisingly precise location determination – for example by scanning according to known networks or Bluetooth biacons in the area. This creates digital movement profiles, often without the knowledge of the user. Mobilicher.de also points out that many apps and operating systems automatically access these location methods – sometimes without express consent. The location can therefore also be recorded if you seem to feel protected.
Security risk through open interfaces
Permanently activated radio connections not only increase the visibility of a device in the digital space, but also open attack surfaces. According to T3N.de, so-called Evil Twin-Wlans or weak points in Bluetooth communication can be used to get access to devices. The Federal Office for Information Technology (BSI) also warns: Open connections make it easier to attack attackers, insert malware or to capture sensitive data. Manipulated networks can be a risk, especially in public areas such as train stations or cafés.
Electricity eaters with a data protection problem
In addition, the energy consumption is: WLAN and Bluetooth regularly scan for connections even in the background – even without active use. This costs battery performance and noticeably reduces the term. The BSI and consumer advocates therefore advise you to activate both interfaces only if necessary – especially on the go or with a low battery level. In addition, they warn of the security risks already mentioned by permanently open radio connections.
Caution should also be exercised in terms of data protection: devices can be clearly identified via so-called MAC addresses. According to the technology portal cccom.at, some tracking services use exactly these signals to create movement profiles – for example in shopping centers or train stations. The recommendation is therefore: only activate if really necessary. This saves battery – and at the same time protects against unnecessary surveillance.
Editor finance.net