Which threat does Bluetooth pose to mobile users?

Bluetooth technology, while convenient for wireless communication between devices, can pose significant security risks, particularly in its potential to expose devices to unauthorized access. When Bluetooth is enabled, it allows other Bluetooth-enabled devices within range to discover and connect to it, provided that the necessary pairing or authentication processes are either bypassed or inadequately managed.

Attackers can exploit vulnerabilities in Bluetooth protocols to conduct unauthorized access, such as eavesdropping on communications or sending malicious data. These unauthorized access attempts can lead to various forms of attacks, including data theft, injection of malware, or even control over the device itself. This highlights the importance of maintaining secure Bluetooth settings, such as using visibility settings that limit device discoverability and ensuring devices are only connected to known, trusted devices.

The other options do not represent threats attributable to Bluetooth. For instance, while Bluetooth does not connect to the internet directly, this does not describe a threat. Moreover, while Bluetooth may consume battery life, it is not a direct security threat. Lastly, physical damage to devices is not a consequence of Bluetooth functionality, as it primarily relates to software and network security.