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Stay on top of software updates from your device manufacturer. Available updates are not always advertised, so visit the manufacturer’s website regularly. Additionally, make sure to update mobile apps that pair with your IoT device. Adjust your settings to turn on automatic software updates, so you always have the latest security patches. This can prevent a cybercriminal from using credential-stuffing tactics to access your network or account if your login details were ever exposed during a data breach.
Make sure to turn on automatic updates—if they're available—for your router and your smart home devices. Registering your devices with the manufacturer should help you get regular updates. If automatic updates aren't an option, make sure to check regularly for updates for your smart devices and router. For extra security, consider setting up a separate router for your smart home devices. This would have a different network name and password than your main router.
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Chances are you probably bought a new phone or laptop in the last few years. If your internet performance is not yet suffering, the security of your connected devices almost certainly is. An aging router means aging security protocols, and an easier access point for bad actors.
Try creating a string that is at least 12 characters long, contains a combination of uppercase letters, lowercase letters, symbols, and numbers, and that is unique to each account. Let’s take a tour through an average smart home and uncover the security implications of the various devices in each room. Investigation is a seriously worrying wake-up call about the safety of smart homes. Brianne has a degree in English and creative writing from Westminster College and has spent 6+ years writing professional, research-based content.
Secure Your Smart Home for Peace of Mind
When you browse the internet the “typical” way, you are connecting directly to the web from your device. The destination website will receive identifying information such as your IP address, location, and even information about your browsing history. If that data is mined and sold, you encounter a malicious website, or if hackers choose to access the connection of any of your smart devices, you could be in trouble.
The Internet of Things — all those appliances and devices that connect to the internet and to each other on your home network — have created new opportunities for cybercriminals. Strong passwords are one thing, but you can take it a step further by enabling two-factor authentication on the services that support it. This will mean that, even if a hacker gets their hands on your password, they won't be able to log into your account without the additional six-digit code that is used to authenticate your identity. Two-factor authentication, or 2FA, is a method of cyber security you’re likely familiar with.
Use unique passwords for everything
When your smart phone manufacturer sends you a software update, don’t put off installing it. Mobile security is important, since you may connect to your smart home through mobile devices. Your IoT device makers also may sent you updates — or you might have to visit their websites to check for them. Be sure to download updates and apply them to your device to help stay safe.
By automatically protecting your connected devices through the router, you can feel confident that you have a solid line of defense against online threats. Ask yourself if the gadget is from a reputable manufacturer. Has the company had previous data breaches, or do they have an excellent reputation for providing secure products? Also, take note of the information your IoT device collects, how vendors use this information and what they release to other users or third parties. Fortunately, the internet connectivity of smart devices allows developers to fix issues and distribute patches after you've bought the product.
If none of the above tech options appeal to you, don't fret. You can require a signature for your delivery so packages aren't ever left outside when no one's home. You can also have your packages shipped to your office or somewhere else where you're guaranteed to be during the day.
Any gadgets that are already connected will stay online. However, anyone else won’t be able to detect your wifi network from their device. When you buy some new gear, you can temporarily make the network public to connect it, then rehide it.
Investigation, how the Epsom printer managed to survive a lot of heat because it was programmed with a strong password? That's why security experts always advocate setting a good password for your accounts and systems. A password with good security hygiene can mean the difference between a compromised nightmare and a safe system. Ran an investigation where they loaded up a house with smart devices. Of course, the house itself wasn't occupied, so nobody's privacy was under attack; however, Which? Monitored the internet connection to the home to see what happened.
Outdated routers mean outdated security features, creating an easier opportunity for hackers to take over. Putting a device on the internet makes it convenient for you to connect to it from anywhere, but it also makes it convenient for hackers. Fortunately, not every smart device is a ticking privacy bomb; buy only respected brands, keep them updated, and use strong passwords to prevent a nasty surprise.
Here’s the number one thing that you should do to secure your router – and so many homeowners DON’T do this! It’s simple – change the default settings on your router, especially your password. When you leave the defaults in, it becomes much easier for a hacker to guess the credentials that you need to log in. Set up connected security cameras inside and out to monitor your home for any unusual activity, and have alerts sent to your smartphone. Every software contains bugs and errors, so it is important to keep your devices updated for maximum security and ease of usability.
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