Peloton Bikes - National Security Risk

[AppDefects]

As it turns out the cultish, Internet connected, Peloton fitness bike of incoming Pres Biden is a national security risk. Here is the original Popular Mechanics report (behind a paywall). It won't be allowed into the Whitehouse without a mod, much like the one they did for former First Lady Michelle Obama's bike. At a minimum they will be taking out the microphone and camera. So much for staying on the Leaderboard...

[ericgeater]

This begs the question: how are other IoT devices managed in secure settings like the White House?  From less important things such as LED lightbulbs and refrigerators, to monitoring and management tools like internet televisions and thermostats.

Seriously, if it's made abroad and the usage data is encrypted, do you think the task is as simple as a separate subnet or air-gapped carrier?  I can imagine WH security to be a little more paranoid than daring to trust either (or both of) these options.

[clauney]

It's a great point, because the (intangible) asset values are much higher. It's easy enough to say "don't put classified information on <x>, it isn't a secured system," but when your systems are now tied into the physical environment with sensors, audio, etc. as well as control of aspects of same, you can't as easily say "don't talk about classified things near that corner of the room." Perimeters / gaps / etc. mean less and less all the time.

[clauney]

I'm sure that an old school exercise bike flanked by SS agents outrunning the bike on treadmills would make it feel just as challenging and interactive. 😄