Building a smart home seems to be all the hype these days, and understandably so. It’s the latest addition to our houses—things that don’t very often get a major update like this. Now, homes aren’t just places where you kick back and warm up your bones beside the fire but a hub of such convenience that it would have seemed impossible only a couple of years ago. Everything from lights to your AC can now essentially be controlled using just your voice. However, it seems only the shiny side of the coin is visible, and a major aspect of smart homes is not discussed—security. So, let’s change that.
Smart home devices may bring convenience to our lives; they may be the evolved form of general devices, but these IoT (Internet of Things) devices haven’t progressed to the point where they are perfect. Security concerns loom over them still, some justified and others fueled by conspiracy theories and paranoia.
Alexa, the best-selling voice assistant speaker, is always listening to you. Now, it may not retain this information and only sends back the voice captured after it hears its wake word (which is usually “Alexa,” but can be other things), knowing which isn’t always very reassuring. These devices still have a long way to go.
However, that doesn’t particularly take away from their value. A flame, misused, can be used to burn, but that doesn’t mean that’s its purpose. With the right knowledge, individuals can equip themselves with the ability to protect themselves from bad actors and ensure their online data protection.
You’re not left alone in the dark; there are things that an average user can do to protect themselves. For those who aren’t able to perform the following, we highly recommend opting for tech support services that can help you shoulder the burden of the herculean task of online data protection.
Always purchase smart home devices from reputable brands. Well-known manufacturers prioritize security and provide regular updates. Read reviews to learn about the reliability of a device. Look for products with strong security features and avoid purchasing cheap, unbranded devices with poor customer feedback.
Smart home devices must be protected using a strong password, not those default passwords that come with devices because, trust us, everybody knows those/they’re a google search away. It is better to use the standard practice of using a password that’s a combination of letters, numbers, and special characters. Create a unique password can consider using a password manager for recommendations and storing of credentials.
Also, consider opting for two-factor authentication (2FA) for it adds an additional layer of security. It requires a second form of verification, such as a text message code and many smart home platforms already offer this feature. Make sure to enable it on all accounts linked to your devices and reduce the chances of unauthorized access.
Your WiFi should have a strong and unique password and, if available, WPA3-level encryption turned on. We do not recommend using your name or address as your password, but we do recommend updating your router’s firmware regularly.
Online data protection is crucial for a secure smart home, so use reliable cloud services to store sensitive data and avoid sharing personal information over insecure networks. Monitor your accounts for unusual activity and always log out when they’re not in use to keep everything safe.
Smart locks are an absolute luxury. They not only do the job of a traditional lock—i.e., keeping your home safe—but also add convenience, which, once you get a taste of, is hard to go back from. No more “I forgot the keys!” or friends having to wait outside until you reach home after tackling rush hour traffic. However, when choosing models, make sure to go with those featuring advanced encryption and security features. Also, regularly update their firmware.
Educating yourself about developments in the world of tech can truly go a long way. Whilst tech support services are always available for those unable to keep up with the rapid pace of tech development, those who can follow trusted blogs and forums should stay updated. Being aware of new threats allows you to take proactive measures and keeps you ahead of scammers and hackers.
Investing in a high-quality router with advanced security features is worth the price, considering it is the very first line of defence for your smart home devices. When set up, enable firewall settings and consider using a virtual private network (VPN). A secure router protects all devices connected to your network.
Remember that not every piece of tech needs to be granted all permissions available. This advice applies to your mobile phone, laptop, and smart home devices alike. A notepad app, for instance, shouldn’t particularly need access to your microphone.
Avoid connecting unnecessary apps and services, and carefully consider the value proposition before granting permissions. The more connections there are, the more at risk your network becomes due to an increased number of entry points.
Say you want to do absolutely none of that but still be safe. Well, in that case, it’s best to seek the assistance of professional tech support services that can help you secure your smart home devices. They will identify vulnerabilities, provide solutions, and even help you with setup, troubleshooting, or maintaining your devices. Professional guidance ensures your network is protected with the best possible practices currently available.
Building a secure smart home requires diligence. Choose trusted smart home devices with strong security features. Use unique passwords and enable two-factor authentication. Secure your Wi-Fi network and keep all software up to date. Monitor your devices and educate yourself about online data protection. Invest in tech support services for professional assistance. Following these steps will protect your smart home from hackers and give you peace of mind.
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