img-3The use of home automation truly made our everyday lives more enjoyable and convenient. Then again, living with technology also makes us extra vulnerable to smart home hackers.

Most of our smart devices at home, after all, use Wi-Fi, cellphone connection, and mobile apps to work. These wireless connections make an easy route for hackers to control your devices and access your personal information.

To safeguard your family and home, you need to study the built-in security features of your smart devices and set them up properly.

Here are some specific steps and actions you should take to prevent any hacking attempt. Also, keep reading to know the signs when your smart home is under cyberattack.

1. Research your smart home technology brand and device options thoroughly.

Branded technologies are more expensive, pushing homeowners to look for more affordable options. However, buying low-priced alternatives is not always the right move.

Instead, balance your budget with the brand and features when choosing your smart home devices. Compare your options and check whether they have good security features or periodic updates.

Read their private policy as well, or if you like, check out customer reviews.

It’s crucial to assess the smart device first before buying. Be sure you know how it works and what you can do to protect it from smart home hackers.

Also, if you wish to integrate it into a smart home network or with other devices, plan how to lessen its vulnerability to hacking.

img-4

2. Protect your at-home Wi-Fi and be careful when using the Internet in public.

When you set up your Wi-Fi router, your service provider should give you a default username and password. Once the router is up and working, give it a different name and a strong password.

Ideally, use a password that you are not using for other smart devices. Also, use the WPA2 encryption and firewall of your router if available. Check with your service provider for the steps to modify your router settings.

Then, avoid connecting to public Wi-Fi if you need to turn on the lights or stream your security camera remotely using your smartphone.

Public Wi-Fi networks are not secure, and smart home hackers can easily use them to read unencrypted data or send malware.

For safety, use your mobile data or virtual private network (VPN) if you need to be online in public.

3. Use unique and strong passwords for all your devices.

Aside from your Wi-Fi, assign a different password for each smart device. If other family members can access your home devices, have them create a personal account, when possible, to avoid using a single shared password.

Here are other helpful password-related tips:

  • Update your passwords regularly, at least twice a year.
  • Consider using a reputable password management tool to keep your login essentials safe and generate strong password suggestions.
  • When possible, use a passphrase instead of a password. A passphrase is a string of 4 to 6 unusual random words, usually with a space in between. It’s easy to remember but hard to crack.
  • Enable the two-factor authentication system if available. It works like a second password or extra verification step if a smart home hacker gets past your initial login info. This system sends you a code via text or email to access the device.

img-5

4. Check the privacy settings of your smart home devices.

Another way to further secure your smart device is to go to its privacy settings and activate the best security options.

It’s also best to disconnect devices from your Wi-Fi network if you are not using them as a smart device. Our previous article on securing smart home devices has more info.

5. Check app permissions and enable auto-updates.

Data collection is a common ability of most smart home devices. It allows them to be intuitive and to automate actions without your input.

However, this ability can expose your schedule, routine, location, and other personal data to smart home hackers. So, protect yourself by reading app permissions, then decide whether to allow or deny access or data collection when prompted.

Also, if you are not using the app anymore, unlink it to your smart home network to prevent hacker access. Similarly, uninstall apps from an old smartphone when you get a new one.

Another way to keep your smart home app secure is to activate the auto-install function for updates, usually in the device’s settings. These downloadable updates offer new features, fix bugs, or address security issues.

Signs of Smart Home Hacking

You know how to protect your smart home, but here are some tell-tale signs to watch out for:

  • Erratic smart device behaviour. Once hackers gain access to your devices, they can cause disruptions. Flickering lights, changing thermostat settings, and malfunctioning smart locks are some examples. Smart devices that keep crashing or have become slow, unresponsive, or inaccessible may also be due to hacking.
  • Unexplained network activity. Check for suspicious activity data usage or unauthorised devices connected to your home network. Do this by using network monitoring tools or checking your router’s activity logs.
  • Weird sounds, messages, or alerts. Hacked voice-activated assistants or smart speakers may emanate unfamiliar voices or sounds. Smart home hackers may use these to eavesdrop or violate privacy. Other compromised devices may also send spam or phishing emails, messages with suspicious links, or notifications confirming actions you did not make.

img-6

Stay Vigilant and Monitor Your Smart Home

Equipping your home with smart devices has several benefits. However, choosing devices with built-in security features and setting them up is crucial to keep smart home hackers out.

The solutions and signs of hacking attempts cited in this article should help minimise potential security risks and cyber threats.

It is also best to work with reliable home automation experts to protect your home. If you need help securing your smart devices, contact us on 1300 522 446.