Expert says: Hack your Smart Home to Secure It

Researcher Michael Sverdlin examined a Broadlink smart-button and its Android app, finding excessive permissions, embedded third‑party SDKs, and outbound telemetry to servers in China; he mitigated risks by isolating the app on a repurposed tablet, blocking the device's internet access via router parental controls, and implementing local control code and firmware/API-based modifications. The article is primarily guidance and consumer advice on hardening smart-home devices—encouraging users to inspect device behavior, apply firmware updates, and use simple network or code-based mitigations rather than detailing a specific compromise.