Can the Chromecasts wifi-network be infected and exploited with malware?

[Oblivion77]

Dear all

I once noticed, that my Chromecast created its own wifi-network. The Chromecast wifi-network had minimal security, and it did not require a password to connect to - so everyone could connect to it.

I am  not looking for tips how to do it. It is way beyond my skill level, and I don't have bad intentions.

1.
Could a hacker connect to the Chromecasts network, and then upload malware to the Chromecast. So that when another device connected to the Chromecasts wifi-network, the device would get infected by the malware on the Chromecast?

2.
Would it require a change in the hardware?
Would it require a change in the firmware?

3.
Does it require NSA-level skills?
Can only be done by Google?
Every tech savy hacker could do it?

4.
Can devices connected to the Chromecasts wifi-network interact with eachother, like on a normal wifi-network?

Thank you

[sicsacol]

Hi Oblivion77,

Thanks for reaching out. Those are great questions.

It seems you have a feature enabled called Guest mode. This function creates a temporary network on your Chromecast for casting or streaming. Without Guest mode enabled, a Chromecast cannot create its own network. Chromecast devices, in their normal operation, rely on connecting to your existing home Wi-Fi network to function. They are designed to stream content from the internet or your local network, but they don't have the capability to act as a standalone router and provide internet access to other devices.

Hackers cannot upload malware to your Chromecast because Chromecasts update their software regularly, improving their security. You can see the following article to learn more about how to improve the security of your Chromecast: Google Nest & Chromecast security tips

If you have more questions feel free to reply to this post. 

Cheers,

Jonathan

[Oblivion77]

Dear Jonathan

Thank you for your reply

What would it require for a hacker to upload malware a Chromecast, and the malware spread from the Chromecast?

 1
Would it require a change in the hardware?
Would it require a change in the firmware?

 2.
Does it require NSA-level skills?
Can only be done by Google?
Every tech savy hacker could do it?

3.
Can devices connected to the Chromecasts WIRELESS-network interact with eachother, like on a normal WIRELESS-network?

[sicsacol]

Hi Oblivion77,

Thanks for posting. I really appreciate you trying to learn more about this device.

Even if someone gains access to your network, they wouldn't be able to control your Chromecast because it's linked to your Google account and doesn't store any information itself. To learn more about how to secure your Google Photos, check out this article: How shared album controls give your photos more privacy.

Since Chromecast only casts photos or videos from a phone or computer, no one can access your personal information on the device itself.  Your Wi-Fi network security or security software on your devices should alert you of any suspicious attempts to access your email or network. As I mentioned, Chromecasts receive automatic updates to improve security and casting functions. If someone infected the device with malware, the system would likely detect it and prompt an update. You can also perform a factory reset to ensure no unauthorized access exists. This would reset the Chromecast to its original settings, and you'd need to set it up again.

Hope this clarify your question.

Regards,

Jonathan

[sicsacol]

Hi Oblivion77,

Thanks for reaching out. Great questions about Chromecast app permissions.

When you cast photos, the Chromecast app needs access to your photos on your phone to allow you to select and send them to the TV. Chromecast itself doesn't store any information; it simply acts as a receiver to display what's cast from your phone.

Even if someone gained unauthorized access to your Chromecast, they wouldn't be able to access your photos because they aren't stored there. Additionally, Chromecast connects to your secure Google account, adding another layer of protection.

If you have any other questions, please don't hesitate to reach out, I'm always happy to help in any way I can.

Sincerely,

Jonathan