The Silent Risk: Bluetooth Keeps Searching Even When You Don’t

Most Australians assume that Bluetooth is a safer alternative to Wi-Fi. However, according to tech expert Vidit Sehgal, founder and CEO of V4 IT Services, that assumption could leave them dangerously exposed. Sehgal explains that while Wi‑Fi usually requires passwords and encryption for connections, people often leave their Bluetooth switched on indefinitely for convenience. In public spaces, this habit exposes devices to “drive‑by” hacking attempts. “Bluetooth is just another doorway into your device, and hackers know how to use it,” he says.

Expert Insights Confirm the Threat

• NordVPN’s cybersecurity experts warn that attackers can exploit Bluetooth vulnerabilities from distances up to 100 metres, despite the typical 10‑metre range. Features like “discoverable” mode amplify the risk, allowing hackers to bypass security, steal data, or install malware. The most concerning threats include Bluebugging (full device control) and Bluesnarfing (unauthorized data extraction).
• Research shows that Bluetooth is vulnerable to a range of attacks, including eavesdropping, man‑in‑the‑middle (MITM) exploits, and denial‑of‑service attacks. Bluetooth Low Energy can also be subject to pairing downgrades and protocol exploits (e.g., “KNOB,” “BIAS,” and “BLUFFS”), affecting devices running versions 4.2 through 5.4.

Best Practices: Reduce Your Bluetooth Risk

Security experts advocate for the following precautions:

1. Turn off Bluetooth when not in use- especially in public areas.
2. Keep device software and firmware updated to patch known vulnerabilities like KNOB, BIAS, BLUFFS, and BlueSDK exploits.
3. Disable discoverability and avoid pairing in public.
4. Unpair unused devices and routinely review paired lists.
5. Use secure pairing methods, unique PINs, and modern Bluetooth versions.
6. Exercise caution in public spaces like cafés, transit hubs, and events.

While Bluetooth offers undeniable convenience, it’s not the benign wireless interface many believe it to be; leaving Bluetooth enabled opens a doorway for quick and potentially serious hacks. Coupled with documented range extensions and protocol vulnerabilities, the risks are real and evolving. All users should take simple, proactive steps, turn off Bluetooth when not needed, stay updated, and avoid indiscriminate pairing, to significantly lower their threat exposure.

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