Former US Vice President Kamala Harris has issued a chilling warning about using wireless earbuds, citing serious security concerns rooted in her experience on the Senate Intelligence Committee. Speaking recently on Stephen Colbert's late night talk show, Harris advised, “Don’t be on the train using your earpods … thinking somebody can’t listen to your conversation.” She revealed her preference for wired earpods came after participating in classified briefings where privacy was paramount.
Wireless earbuds come with privacy risks
Cybersecurity experts back her caution, pointing to vulnerabilities in Bluetooth technology like 'man-in-the-middle attacks' that can intercept audio or even compromise paired devices.
Last month, India’s cybersecurity agency, the Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-In), issued a high-severity alert for Bluetooth audio device users. The agency pointed out several security weaknesses in these gadgets. These threats expose an attack surface that malicious actors could exploit—even without pairing—by hijacking common chipsets found in headphones by brands like Bose, Sony, JBL, and Marshall.
One specific risk involves EARbud chip vulnerabilities, where hackers within Bluetooth range can read device memory, access call history, microphone audio, or even rewrite firmware to gain full control. Such exploits are especially realistic against high-value or high-profile targets—though everyday users face a much lower risk.
Why wired headphones may be a smarter choice
Harris’s choice isn't mere preference—it’s about reducing exposure. By avoiding Bluetooth altogether, she eliminates potential interception points. Experts say while wireless technology has improved, it remains susceptible to weaknesses that are not always obvious to average users. Wired headphones offer a safer path—especially when handling sensitive conversations or data.
