The smart home revolution across the nation is going strong as Millennials become the largest generation of homeowners at 43%. Up to 27% of households in the US have a smart home product within their property. However, one aspect remains a thorn in the side for smart home technology: security concerns.
Why You Need to Worry About Security for Smart Home Technology
A 2016 report by Avast showed that 40.8% of smart homes have at least one device that is vulnerable to cyber-attacks. Additionally, an estimated 35% of home broadband customers had a data security issue over the past year. As cybercriminals find new and ingenious ways to hack their way into IoT, homeowners have the responsibility to ensure that the devices they connect to their smart home network do not compromise their security.
Here are five ways you can beef up your security for smart home technology.
Use A Two-Factor Authentication
You may need to take proactive steps to better the security of smart home technology. Most apps and smart devices now allow users to opt into a two-step authentication process before anyone can access the account. The two-factor verification may reduce the risk of a brute force attack, with the user receiving alerts and notifications of the login attempts.
Change Your Passwords and Usernames
About 69.2% of threats to security for smarthome technology arise from weak credentials. The router and other smart devices around your home may come with default names and passwords from the manufacturer. Leaving your username open may aid hackers to identify the make and model of your IoT device, increasing the chance of a successful brute force attack. Create passwords that are unrelated to any of your kin, pets, or hobbies. You can use a password generator to create random combinations for your devices with a password manager to help you remember all of them.
Disable Features You Don’t Need
According to Avast, the most common culprit for cyberattacks in homes is the smart printer. Such devices may have default, unknown features that may set your home up for hacks. Turning off features that you do not use can minimize the risk of a backend entry to your home automation system.
Regularly Update the Software
A third of smart homes are vulnerable to remote attacks due to outdated software. Most IoT devices are not designed with security for smarthome technology in mind. As manufacturers try to catch up with the regulations and the ever-changing cyber crime enterprise, they may release security patches for their products that may help seal loopholes in previous versions. Keeping your audio-visual solutions up to date can help fix the bugs in the current system.
Request an Expert Audit
You can request your wireless networking provider to carry out a security audit for your system. The network security experts can help identify loopholes within your current devices and provide recommendations for patching them. Additionally, the network provider can help set up a guest network from your router, providing your IoT devices with a dedicated network.
While a connected home may be more comfortable and convenient to live in, it may remain vulnerable to security issues. The tips above can help you improve your security for smarthome technology. For more information on home automation security, wired network solutions and managed services contact Trident.