Security risk for children: Shocking vulnerabilities in Xplora watches!

Security risk for children: Shocking vulnerabilities in Xplora watches!

In an exciting presentation during the 38th Chaos Communication Congress in Hamburg, security researchers from TU Darmstadt revealed worrying vulnerabilities in smartwatches from the manufacturer Xplora. These devices are becoming increasingly popular, especially among families who want to make it easier for their children to access the digital world. Over 1.5 million of these watches are already in use in Europe, but the promised security features are now coming under criticism.

IT Dailyreports that the smartwatches for children are advertised with functions such as contact restrictions and a location app. Parents have the ability to track their children's location in real time. Professor Matthias Hollick, who heads the Secure Mobile Networks (SEEMOO) department at TU Darmstadt, explains that more and more parents are using these watches because they promise security and fun.

Security defects in detail

As part of his master's thesis, researcher Malte Vu analyzed a current model of the Xplora smartwatch. He managed to activate the watch's developer mode and read the software. The result: A single cryptographic key gives unauthorized third parties widespread access to all devices of the same model. This means that attackers can not only view private chats, pictures and voice messages, but also send messages in the name of children and manipulate location data.

The alarming results were reported to Xplora in May 2025. In the following months, initial improvement measures were implemented, but without addressing the fundamental security issues. These deficiencies have attracted the attention of the Federal Office for Information Security (BSI). The authority has now been involved to check the safety of these products and take action if necessary.

Outlook for security updates

As a first step, Xplora announced a comprehensive security update for January 2026. The company also plans to revise its vulnerability reporting program. Hollick emphasizes the importance of independent safety reviews for digital devices, especially those intended for children. The safety of children in the digital space must be a top priority.

The results of the research could be crucial not only for Xplora, but also for other children's smartwatch manufacturers. Especially in the run-up to Christmas, when many families give their children such devices, it is important to be aware of the safety aspects. Data security and privacy must not be left behind while little adventurers immerse themselves in the digital world.

So it remains to be hoped that Xplora and other manufacturers will use the opportunity to not only improve their products, but also to regain parents' trust in the safety of their children's digital companions.

For more information and comprehensive reports, see the articles onAll About SecurityandDigital Week.