Tesco Hudl's factory reset does not wipe it clean

Budget tablet has a "flaw in the firmware", say security experts

The factory reset feature on Tesco's Hudl tablet reportedly does little to delete personal data.

Before selling your tech on, using the factory reset option goes without saying to assure to the memory is wiped clean.

Although according to a recent investigation, the factory reset on Tesco's budget Hudl tablet does very little to delete sensitive information.

The BBC teamed up with Ken Munro, a security expert from Pen Test Partners, in order to see how easy it was to recover information from the Hudl.

After purchasing 10 second-hand Hudls off eBay, they began running tests.

Munro discovered the Hudl was particularly vulnerable because of a known bug in the Rockchip processor at its heart.

Using a freely available software tool, Munro was able to easily read data on the Hudls to which the factory reset facility had been applied.

All types of personal data were found such as photos, pin codes, Wi-Fi keys, cookies and browsing data.

In response, a Tesco spokesperson said: "Customers should always ensure all personal information is removed prior to giving away or selling any mobile device. To guarantee this, customers should use a data wipe program."

The spokesperson added that any tablets returned to Tesco would have all personal data wiped.

Wondering if the supermarket's tablet is any good? Then have a read of our Tesco Hudl review.

There's also been reports that Tesco plans to launch its own smartphone in September.

Nathan George

Nathan George is a freelance journalist who has contributed to T3.com in the fields of gaming, social media, streaming services, autonomous vehicles, phones, virtual reality headsets, wireless speakers and future tech. He studied journalism at the University of the West of England and is a holder of the Bronze and Silver The Duke of Edinburgh Award.