Amazon has issued a software update for Fire TV Stick users, addressing three security vulnerabilities that could have left the streaming device open to potential malware threats. The update, released on May 4, was prompted by the discovery of these flaws by cybersecurity firm Bitdefender, which shared its findings with Amazon through its Bug Bounty program. One of the vulnerabilities exposed the device to a hacking technique known as PIN brute forcing.
PIN brute forcing involves an attacker repeatedly guessing login credentials until the correct password is discovered, granting unauthorized access to an account. Fortunately, Amazon responded promptly to the cybersecurity alert and resolved the security flaws before any reported incidents occurred.
In a statement to the Mirror, Bitdefender acknowledged Amazon’s quick response and expressed gratitude for their collaboration throughout the vulnerability disclosure process: “Amazon has released fixes for these issues on Fire TV devices, and the company has no evidence that this issue has been used against customers.”
Fire TV Stick owners need not worry about manually searching for the software update, as the device automatically checks for and downloads new operating system updates when connected to the internet. To verify if an update is available, users can navigate to “Settings” on the device, then select “My Fire TV” and “About.” If an update is ready, the option to “Check for System Update” will appear for installation.
During the update process, it is essential to maintain a stable internet connection and close all background apps, as the device will require a restart. Users are advised not to unplug the device while the update is being downloaded. While software updates often bring enhancements to features and performance, security patches should be treated with urgency to safeguard against potential hacking risks.
Amazon emphasizes its commitment to security, stating, “Security is foundational to how we design devices, features, and experiences.” The company appreciates the collaborative efforts of researchers in identifying potential issues and assures customers that there is no evidence of these vulnerabilities being exploited.
The Fire TV Stick series, including the newer Fire TV Stick 4K Max, has garnered positive reviews for its streaming capabilities and compatibility with Amazon Prime and Alexa devices. Despite occasional ads on the home screen, these devices remain popular due to their affordability and integration with smart home setups.
