Illustrative imagery. Equipment and configuration vary by home.
Yes, some connected devices have been sold with malicious software already installed. That does not mean every streaming device is unsafe. It means the source of a device, its software and its behavior deserve attention.
What the FBI documented
The FBI’s June 5, 2025 BADBOX 2.0 alert described millions of infected connected devices. Examples included streaming boxes and digital picture frames. Some were compromised before purchase; others became infected during setup, including through required unofficial app downloads.
Compromised equipment can be used to relay other people’s internet traffic. A device may still perform its advertised function, so normal playback alone is not a security check.
Before adding another device
Check who makes the product, whether the manufacturer supports it, and where its apps and updates come from. Be cautious if setup asks you to disable protections or install software from an unfamiliar marketplace. The FBI specifically flags devices from unrecognized brands and suspicious app-installation requirements as warning signs.
Keep a record of what you connect. Include the brand and model, where you bought it, and how it receives updates. That makes it easier to identify equipment when a relevant warning appears.
If something seems suspicious
Consider disconnecting the device from your network while you investigate. Follow guidance from the manufacturer and relevant security authorities. Avoid entering passwords or other sensitive information into a device you do not trust.
Monitoring can help reveal unusual activity, but an alert needs context and follow-up. A separate network may help limit access between devices where the equipment supports it; it is not a way to make an infected device safe.
A safer connected home starts with an inventory
An assessment can help you understand which devices share your connection, which equipment remains supported and what configuration changes are appropriate. Hardware controls complement updates, account security and careful purchasing. They are not a guarantee against every threat.
Read the smart-home network security guide →
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- Plan smart-device and work-device network boundaries
- Check your router support and update process
- Make an inventory with the free checklist
Source
FBI IC3: BADBOX 2.0 botnet alert, June 5, 2025. Educational reference, not an endorsement of Home Network Shield.