Smart
devices are so pervasive throughout our homes that it's hard to imagine what
life was like before them. From door cams
that show us when our kids get home to AI-powered devices that keep track of
grocery lists and play our favorite music while we cook, we truly live in
"smart" homes.
But
unlike devices of the past, you can't "set and forget" smart devices. These
tools are connected to the Internet, where hackers keep a close eye out for
unprotected devices. When they find a device with a weak password, they can
access it and carry out terrifying crimes like watching your family through a
home camera. Before you plug in your smart device, follow these simple steps to
make sure it's not an open door for peering eyes.
Pros And Cons Of Smart Devices
When
hackers find an unprotected device - like an indoor cam that you never bothered
to change the default password to - they can access sensitive information on
your account, including your address, birth date, e-mail address and phone
number. Criminals use this information to create a profile about you and carry
out targeted attacks. A family in Mississippi even had a hacker taunt their
young daughter through their ring camera. Thankfully, you can take a few simple
security steps to avoid becoming a victim of your smart device.
Steps To Keep Your Smart Home Safe
1. Change the default login information
immediately. Default passwords are low-hanging fruit for hackers, so be
sure to change this to a new, stronger password right away.
2. Make sure your WiFi is secure. If your
WiFi password is a few years old or you use the same password on other
accounts, change it to a stronger password.
3. Enable multifactor authentication (MFA) in
security settings. This way, users can only log in with a
security code or authenticator app, making it nearly impossible for hackers to
get in.
4. Regularly update the device. Updates
fix issues or add new features that may improve your security. Don't skip these
updates. If your smart device doesn't update automatically, set a reminder in
your phone to check for updates periodically.
5. Consider separate networks. Many WiFi
providers offer guest networks. Consider connecting smart devices to a home
guest network separate from the one that your phones or laptops are on. This
way, if a smart device is hacked, it's not a straight shot to devices holding
more valuable information.
The biggest mistake smart-device users make is thinking they can plug in their devices and walk away. These tips go a long way toward ensuring that your device isn't an open door to creepy criminals. Click here for more tech tips!
