How to Keep Your Smart Home from Turning Against You
Transforming your home into a smart haven is second nature nowadays. It's not odd to instruct your fridge to update your digital grocery list. Smart homes offer unparalleled convenience, letting you control lights, thermostats, and virtual assistants like Alexa. However, recent headlines spotlight vulnerabilities in smart home tech, as seen in the New York Post's "Locked Out & Hacked: When Smart Homes Turn on Owners."
In this era of smarter homes, safeguarding against potential mishaps is crucial. Let's delve into strategies to protect your home and privacy.
Smart Home Safety Tips You Need to Know
Fortify Your Network
Your smart home's foundation is its network. Like securing your front door, don't overlook Wi-Fi security.
Change your router's default password to a robust, unique one.
Opt for WPA3 encryption (Wi-Fi 6).
Establish a separate guest network to isolate smart devices.
Regularly update your router's firmware for the latest security patches.
Bolster Device Passwords
When setting up smart devices, choose strong, unique passwords. Avoid easily guessable ones like "123456" and consider using a password manager for added security.
Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
Many smart device manufacturers offer 2FA for an extra layer of security. Even if someone guesses your password, 2FA acts as a barrier against unauthorized access.
Regular Firmware Updates
Firmware updates are crucial for fixing security vulnerabilities. Check for updates regularly and apply them promptly to patch discovered weaknesses.
Vet Your Devices
Not all smart devices are created equal. Research manufacturers' reputations, prioritize products with prompt updates and robust security features, and avoid obscure or untrusted brands.
Isolate Sensitive Devices
Segregate critical devices onto a separate network, like smart locks and security cameras. This ensures their security even if one network is compromised.
Review App Permissions
Scrutinize smart home app permissions before granting access. Restrict permissions to the minimum required for the device to operate.
Be Cautious with Voice Assistants
Voice-activated assistants like Alexa pose privacy risks. Review privacy settings, be cautious about shared information, and consider muting the microphone when not in use to prevent unintended eavesdropping.
Check Devices Regularly
Monitor your smart devices for unusual behavior, such as unexpected activations or unknown devices on your network. Investigate and take prompt action if anything seems suspicious.
Understand Device Data Usage
Review your smart device's privacy policy to understand how it uses your data. Make informed decisions about the devices you bring into your home.
Get Expert Help With Smart Home Security
While smart homes offer incredible convenience, they come with risks. If you need expert help setting up your smart home security, give us a call today to schedule a chat or visit our website, Out Task.
Article used with permission from The Technology Press.
