Philips's hue LED lightbulbs are vulnerable to hacker intrusion, putting the user at risk of a blackout, a security researcher has warned.

A study by Nitesh Dhanjani suggests that the app-controlled lightbulbs communicate with devices using an authentication system that could be breached.

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Hackers could apparently obtain a lightbulb's MAC address with a piece of malware software that would enable them to switch it off and on.

The loophole does not leave users at risk of personal data breaches, but could see their homes suddenly plunged into darkness.

"Lighting is critical to physical security. Smart lightbulb systems are likely to be deployed in current and new residential and corporate constructions," said Dhanjani.

"An abuse case such as the ability of an intruder to remotely shut off lighting in locations such as hospitals and other public venues can result in serious consequences."

The purported risk is not considered to be widespread as Philips's hue LED lightbulbs are yet to reach mainstream circulation.

Watch a video explaining the security risk below:

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