The Internet of Things (IoT) refers to the billions of physical devices around the world that are now connected to the internet, which are all collecting and sharing data. In this case, “physical” refers to anything with an on/off switch. Devices such as cell phones and computers have been connected through wireless networks for years, but it's only recently that a wider range of devices has joined them. Some things you might find in your home include smart speakers like Siri or Alexa, smartwatches like Apple Watch and FitBits, home security cameras, smart doorbells, programmable coffee makers and robots like the Roomba vacuum cleaner.
IoT cybersecurity is a big topic at the moment, and for good reason. The risk of a cyberattack is higher than ever before, especially if you're using IoT devices in your home or workplace. If you haven't already done so, take some time to learn about the basics of personal cybersecurity and how to protect yourself in today’s highly connected world.
The best way to protect yourself from hackers and data breaches is to take basic steps, such as changing default passwords and purchasing only from reputable retailers.
Here are some other tips for keeping your smart home secure:
Review the privacy policies
Most devices have a privacy policy that explains how they collect and use your data in order to provide services like location tracking or sending push notifications about updates on social media accounts. Read through it carefully and make sure you're comfortable with what information is being collected.
Review the security settings
Every IoT device has a set of built-in functions that can be configured based on the users' preferences - these include things like turning off default features (such as GPS tracking) or enabling two-factor authentication (2FA), which will require users to enter both their username, password AND another code sent via SMS before granting access into an account online.
Set strong passwords
An easy way to protect yourself is by setting a strong password for each device and service—and changing it regularly! You should also change the default password on every device that comes with one, like your router or smart speaker. You can also add two-factor authentication (2FA) when logging into websites that support it.
The ESET SMART SECURITY PREMIUM features a password manager where you can safely store your passwords and conveniently share across devices.
Change the “wake” word that activates your devices
When you buy a smart speaker from Amazon, Google or Apple, it will come with a default wake word: "Alexa," "Hey Siri" or "OK Google." But hackers know this and may try to access the devices by saying these words themselves. To avoid this situation and make it harder for hackers to gain access to information inside your home, you should change the wake word on your smart devices.
Keep all software up to date
The update may contain security patches or other fixes for bugs that could be exploited by malicious hackers.
Connect the device to a trusted network
One of the first steps you can take to protect your home or workplace is by connecting it to a trusted network. This means that if someone hacks into your Wi-Fi router, they won't be able to access your smart devices unless they have physical access or hack the router itself.
Be wary of which accounts you connect to your devices
When connecting devices to the Internet of Things, you should be careful about which accounts you connect to your device. Avoid connecting accounts with sensitive information (like bank accounts) and disconnect accounts when they’re no longer needed.
Be cautious when connecting third-party extensions to your Wi-Fi network
The easiest way to ensure that an extension won’t cause any issues down the road is by sticking with established brands (like Google Assistant). Be aware of the personal information you are sharing with them, like pictures of your children or family members' names.
If you're thinking about buying a smart home device, that's great! But if your router is open to the public and has no firewall, it's like leaving your front door unlocked. Don't be afraid of technology or new innovations. Just make sure that you take basic precautions so that hackers can't access your data through these devices.
ESET SMART TV SECURITY is a product that has been developed by our engineers to keep your Smart TV Safe from unwanted threats.