A good personal security policy is to NEVER trust something that you receive unsolicited.
This includes emails, text messages, Facebook chats, phone calls, USB drives, a good deal on new Rolex, or maybe even an offer on the Brooklyn Bridge.
Now add free Smart Watches to the list.
The Department of the Army Criminal Investigation Division has sent a memo stating that members of the military have been receiving such watches that could contain malware allowing access to data on the user’s phone.
“Service members across the military have reported receiving smartwatches unsolicited in the mail. These smartwatches, when used, have auto-connected to Wi-Fi and began connecting to cell phones unprompted, gaining access to a myriad of user data.
These smartwatches may also contain malware that would grant the sender access to saved data to include banking information, contacts, and account information such as usernames and passwords.”
Note that this warning may also apply to offers for free products in exchange for a positive review on Amazon or other selling sites.