Smart homes are vulnerable to hackers. This is true of any device that connects to the internet. Thus, it applies to all of your smart devices from your smart toaster to your video doorbell. Once hacked, it is exposed to the danger of hackers gaining remote access. Hackers can even take direct control of your smart technology.

Individual smart devices don’t all come with built-in security. This gap will be exploited by hackers to access your personal information. Some smart devices have security features but these need to be set up manually.

Hackers use software to attack areas of poor security in any of your smart devices. Through this indirect approach, they hope to get into your home network or computer. Follow these tips to secure your smart home and devices.

In-Built Risks

Check the user manual for each of your smart devices to see what level of security is built in. See what you must do to set up further security features and activate these.

It is not necessary for all smart devices to connect to the internet. Do not connect those that do not require the internet to carry out their functions. It is also possible to create a smart home without using the internet.

This chain is only as strong as its weakest link. When devices are connected, a vulnerability in any one of them can allow hackers into your network via that device and compromise the security of all your other devices. Make use of whatever securities are available for each of your devices. Speak to Sure Locks about wireless smart alarms.

Research Smart Products

Conduct research on every smart device you plan to purchase. Find out if it does automatic security and software updates as vulnerabilities are discovered and patched. Gain familiarity with its privacy policy to understand what personal data is retained and how it is used. Read a good number of customer reviews to see what problems other users encountered.

Protect Your Wi-Fi Network

Update the default settings when setting up your Wi-Fi router. Do not continue to use the default password given to you by the service provider. Just because you trust your service provider does not mean that all its employees or contractors are trustworthy. The password you select should be different from any other passwords you are using or have used.

Enable the firewall and set up WPA2 encryption. The latter is found in the router settings. Know how to install updates as they are released.

Never connect to your home network from a public network. Set up a private hotspot or Virtual Private Network (VPN) app instead.

Establish unique passwords for all your smart devices. Change them every few months. Enable multi-factor identification; when you log in to a device you will be given a code via your mobile phone to input. Use a password manager to remember your passwords, store them safely, and generate new, strong passwords.

Remember that any smart device can be hacked. Make the security of your smart home a priority.