Hardware backdoors

Hardware backdoors are modified computer chips or other firmware/hardware that provide non-users access to a device

This can include phones, IoT devices like thermostats and home security systems, routers, and computers

Hardware backdoors can communicate user data, provide remote access, or be used for surveillance

Hardware backdoors can be shipped with products (either by a rogue manufacturer or for some benign purpose), but they can also be physically installed in the event that a device is stolen