The "Vault 7" leaks are the latest revelations to be published by the WikiLeaks website. The material reveals the CIA's detailed descriptions of the vulnerabilities of smartphones, computers and other electronic devices. The corresponding hacker techniques are also expounded.

Data and consumer protectionists are not surprised. For a long time now, they have seen the "Internet of Things" (IoT) [the physical devices involved in the electronic connection and exchange of data. Ed.] as a potential source of danger. "We examine whether the consumer understands where the data is created, how it is interlinked and what is done with it," says Michael Schuhen from the University of Siegen in western Germany.

He and his colleagues have initiated a pilot project at the Center for Economic Education at the University of Siegen. They test consumer competence with regard to "smart" electrical appliances, and they offer tips on how to keep hackers out of private homes.