Big security hole in Google Home

[Poyetas]

Yesterday I was in my friend's place. I was connected to his WiFi. I have never been invited to his home in Google Home. At some point, he verbally ordered his 2nd gen Nest Hub to play music. It started playing immediately. To my surprise, it was my Spotify account the one that was being used (I use that on my own place with my Google Home account) I opened Google Home app on my phone and was able to see and manage all his devices. So it seems that by simply connect to the same WiFi, I will have access to all his devices on Google Home. I find this annoying, to say the least. 

[ovidioj · Accepted solution]

Hello @Poyetas,

Thanks for posting in the community. 
I appreciate the details about the unexpected access to your Google Home account.
This behavior can be concerning, especially when you're using a friend's network. To prevent unauthorized access in the future, consider the following:

1. Guest Network: If your friend's router allows, create a guest network with limited access or check out this link to create one: Create, edit, and share a guest Wi-Fi network. This will prevent you from accessing their personal devices and accounts.
2. Review Google Home Settings: Check your Google Home app settings to ensure that guest mode or similar features are not enabled, which could allow unintended access.
3. Device Security: Ensure your devices (phone, tablet) have strong security measures, such as up-to-date software and password protection.
4. Google Account Security: Regularly review your Google account security settings to prevent unauthorized access.

If you're concerned about privacy and security, it's advisable to discuss these concerns with your friend and explore ways to limit access to personal devices and accounts while using their network. We apologize for any inconvenience caused and are committed to helping you protect your privacy.

Please let me know if you have any other questions. Thank you.

All the best, 
Jorge

[Poyetas]

Thank you, Jorge. 

It would be nice that Google took this issue seriously and fix it, rather than put the burden of the (palliative) fix on the user. We Google Home users deserve a bullet proof product. 

Regards

Arturo

[ovidioj]

Hello @Poyetas,

Thanks for posting in the community. 
I understand your frustration and appreciate your feedback. We value your input and are committed to improving the Google Home experience.

To help us address this issue more effectively, please share your feedback through the Google Home app or in the next link: Feedback form. Your insights are invaluable and can contribute to future updates.

Thank you for your understanding and continued support.

All the best, 
Jorge