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Smart Grills Get Smarter: Improving IoT Security One Device at a Time

Bishop Fox Security Consultant, Nisk Cerne discovered and worked with Traeger Grills to disclose a vulnerability in the company’s embedded Wi-Fi Controller that allows users to connect to and control their grills remotely.

 

Summary: 

Join Bishop Fox Security Consultant Nick Cerne as he reveals how a seemingly innocent smart grill feature could become a serious safety concern. This episode of News Insights takes you behind the scenes of real-world IoT vulnerability research, demonstrating how everyday smart devices can pose unexpected risks. Learn about the discovery process, responsible disclosure, and broader implications for consumer IoT security.

From consumer drones and smart speakers, to farm equipment, Bishop Fox is very experienced at finding ways that criminals may try and outsmart the latest smart devices.

Nick Cerne discovered and worked with Traeger Grills to disclose a vulnerability in the company’s embedded Wi-Fi Controller that allows users to connect to and control their grills remotely with a mobile device to manage cooking cycles. The vulnerability would allow someone else to remotely access the grill, and either from its standby state or during cooking, adjust the temperature and issue other grill commands. This could include pushing the grill to its maximum temperature, risking fire hazards if not simply a ruined meal.

Key Takeaways:

  • Real-world IoT vulnerability discovery process
  • Smart device security assessment methodology
  • Consumer safety implications of IoT devices
  • Responsible disclosure best practices
  • Common IoT security pitfalls
  • Risk assessment techniques
  • Practical security recommendations
  • Smart device purchasing considerations
  • Consumer protection strategies
  • IoT security awareness tips

Who Should Watch: 

  • IoT Security Researchers
  • Product Security Teams
  • Consumer Device Manufacturers
  • Security Consultants
  • Smart Home Enthusiasts
  • Product Developers
  • Security Awareness Trainers
  • Quality Assurance Teams
  • Consumer Protection Advocates
  • Risk Management Professionals

Perfect for both technical and non-technical audiences interested in understanding the real-world implications of IoT security vulnerabilities. Especially relevant for consumers and professionals concerned about smart device security and safety.


Nick Cerne Headshot

About the author, Nick Cerne

Security Consultant III

Nicholas Cerne is a Security Consultant III at Bishop Fox, specializing in application penetration testing, hybrid application assessments, and cloud environment testing. He also enjoys conducting IoT security research as a hobby. Nicholas holds the Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP), Offensive Security Web Expert (OSWE), and Security+ certifications.

He graduated with a B.S. in Cybersecurity from Virginia Tech, where he formerly served as president of the university's Cybersecurity Club.

More by Nick

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