CITY, State (Fox News) — Google’s Fast Pair protocol, designed for quick Bluetooth connections, has been found to have serious security flaws by researchers at KU Leuven, leading to a new attack method named WhisperPair. The vulnerability allows attackers to silently take over devices like headphones and speakers, even tracking the user’s location, affecting both Android and iPhone users.

## What WhisperPair is and how it hijacks Bluetooth devices
Researchers discovered that the Fast Pair protocol allows attackers to pair with devices in seconds, enabling them to interrupt calls, inject audio, and activate microphones without user knowledge.

## Audio brands affected by the Fast Pair vulnerability
17 Fast Pair compatible devices from major brands like Sony, Jabra, and Google were tested, raising concerns about security checks during certification testing.

## How headphones can become tracking devices
Certain models allow attackers to claim the device first, leading to continuous tracking of the user’s movements. Victims may dismiss tracking alerts as errors, not realizing they are being tracked.

## Why many Fast Pair devices may stay vulnerable
Headphones and speakers require firmware updates to fix the vulnerability, which may not reach all affected models in a timely manner.

## Why convenience keeps creating security gaps
The convenience layer built on top of Bluetooth prioritized speed over strict ownership enforcement, leading to vulnerabilities. Security and ease of use must be designed together.

## Google responds to the Fast Pair WhisperPair security flaws
Google has been working to address the vulnerabilities and has sent recommended patches to headphone manufacturers. The company urges users to check for firmware updates and confirms that its Pixel headphones are now patched.

## How to reduce your risk right now
Users are advised to check if their devices are affected, update firmware promptly, avoid pairing in public places, factory reset suspicious devices, turn off Bluetooth when not in use, reset secondhand devices, take tracking alerts seriously, and keep their phones updated.

Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson emphasizes the importance of paying attention to device security and updates, urging users to stay informed and secure their devices.