Technology for smart homes has revolutionized our lives by bringing convenience, automation efficiency, energy efficiency, as well as remote control into our daily routines. From smart thermostats and doorbells to connected lighting as well as voice assistants Our homes are more efficient than ever before. As homes become “smarter,” they also are more attractive as targets for cybercriminals.
Security threats for smart houses aren’t fiction. Hackers have hacked into cameras that aren’t secured and smart lock signals and used poorly secured IoT devices to hack into whole home networks. The good part? You can safeguard yourself by implementing the right cybersecurity strategies that are practical and effective.
Here are the top strategies to protect your home’s smart devices and keep your peace of mind.
1. Secure Your Wi-Fi Network
The Wi-Fi network is the entry point to your smart home’s entire network. In the event that your WiFi network has been insecure each connected device is at risk.
What do you do?
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Make sure you have a secure unique, distinct WiFi username and password. Mix letters, symbols, numbers and. Avoid common phrases and personal information.
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Make changes to the default name of your network (SSID). Avoid divulging the brand of your router as well as your own name.
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Utilize WPA3 encryption (or WPA2 if WPA3 isn’t possible).
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Remove the guest’s access or put guests on an independent network.
Pro Tip:
Create an exclusive IoT network that ensures your devices are not connected to your phones and laptops. Even if one device gets compromised, your private data remains safe.
2. Change Default Passwords–Immediately
A lot of smart devices have default passwords and usernames that are known to the public or easily guessed.
Action:
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Replace the default credentials with strong and unique passwords.
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Avoid reusing passwords across devices.
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Make use of an password management program to create and store secure passwords.
3. Keep Firmware and Software Updated
Smart home devices typically receive updates that fix bugs or patch security weaknesses, but only when the device is installed.
What do you do?
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Switch on automated updates as soon as they become you have them.
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Make sure to check for firmware updates frequently using the device’s app or the dashboard.
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Replace devices made by manufacturers that have stopped providing updates.
Why is this important:
Unpatched devices are among the most frequent ways for attackers to gain access.
4. Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
2FA provides an additional layer of security, needing a second verification process, similar to the text message or generated by an application.
2FA is particularly important to:
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Smart security cameras
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Smart locks
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Cloud-connected devices
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Apps for controlling access to physical areas of your home
Select an app-based security (like Authy or Google Authenticator) instead of SMS when it is.
5. Disable Features You Don’t Use
Smartphones are usually loaded with features, some of which you will never use, however hackers could.
Best practices:
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You can disable remote access if don’t require it.
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Switch off the UPnP (Universal Plug and Play) on your router. This can expose your network to hackers.
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Shut off Bluetooth or geofencing, if not needed.
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Review permissions for apps and revoke those that aren’t necessary.
6. Use a Secure Router–or Upgrade to One
Your router is the first protection. If it’s old it might not be able to support the latest security features.
Look for routers that include:
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Automatic firmware updates
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A built-in firewall as well as detection of threats
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Support for WPA3
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The ability to create guest/IoT networks
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Micro-segmentation, parental controls and parent controls
Think about Mesh Wi-Fi devices which come with strong security tools.
7. Monitor Your Smart Home Devices Regularly
Similar to the smoke alarms you check, periodically reviewing your smart devices can help to spot issues before they become serious.
What should you look for:
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There are unknown devices that connect to your network
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Devices that respond slowly or acting unpredictably
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Unusual usage of data
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Logs show unsuccessful login attempts
Many routers and anti-virus tools today offer Monitoring of IOT which will detect abnormal behavior.
8. Buy Trusted Devices Only
All smart devices aren’t made to be equal. Low-cost or non-brand brands can make a few alterations to security.
Prior to purchase:
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Verify if the manufacturer offers regular updates.
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Find reviews about security and privacy practices.
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Find out if the device is compatible with WPA3 2FA, a 2FA feature, as well as encryption.
Making a small investment early can save you from costly problems in the future.
9. Protect Your Smartphone–The Real Command Center
Your smart home devices are typically operated by your phone. If someone steals you phone’s security, they can gain access to all your devices.
Protect your phone by:
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Utilizing a secure PIN or biometric lock
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Keep your OS current
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Beware of public Wi-Fi when using your smart home applications
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Utilizing mobile security apps when feasible
10. Consider a Smart Home Firewall or Security Hub
Specific IoT firewalls stop suspicious activity from your devices.
These could:
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Detect unusual device behavior
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Block known IPs that are malicious
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It is important to isolate devices that have been compromised.
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Give detailed security information
If you’re connected to many devices, an specific IoT secure hub could be something you should be taking into consideration.
Final Thoughts
Smart homes are a great source of convenience, however without adequate security, the convenience may be costly. Cyber-attacks are rapidly evolving and attackers usually look at the weakest link, usually an unprotected device.
By protecting your network, re-updating your devices, utilizing strong authentication, and implementing proper digital hygiene practices, you will dramatically reduce the risk and have a secure and connected home.
