Change Default Passwords And Enable Multifactor Authentication.
Make sure you have changed the default password on your home router to something very secure, and connect your IoT devices to that network. Enable multifactor authentication.
Establish Separate Passwords And Networks.
When installing an IoT device, make sure it has a unique password that's used only for that device. Connect the device to a separate network from the other devices on your account, and ensure that your network isn't using the default settings.
Learn To Spot The Signs Of Phishing.
Using phishing techniques, hackers aim to install malware on users' devices, which allows them to extract information from computers. People often receive fraudulent emails, SMS messages or notifications requesting them to click on a link; this is a situation where users should be cautious.
Research Known Vulnerabilities.
Conduct a simple internet search. Type the brand, type, make and model of your IoT device into Google in order to discover any known security vulnerabilities that may be associated with it. While not everything on the internet is factual, this can give you a sense of which products might be safer to use than others.
Update Firmware Regularly.
Manufacturers release updates to patch vulnerabilities. By keeping your devices up to date, you significantly enhance your home network's security.
Use a Firewall.
A firewall can help protect IoT devices against attacks. If you have technical knowledge, you can use products such as Firewalla or pfSense to implement network segments.
Review And Limit Data And Service Access.
Regularly audit and manage device permissions and services. Review and limit what data each device can access and what services it is allowed to use, similar to how space missions control and restrict access to onboard systems to prevent unauthorized use and ensure operational integrity.
Opt-in For Fiber-Optic Or Wired Broadband.
Opting for fiber-optic or wired broadband enhances internet security by offering a direct connection and reducing shared access points that hackers can exploit. Despite mobile broadband's convenience, wired connections reduce cyberthreat risks, ensuring a more secure and reliable online experience.
Choose Close Proximity Network Connections.
Choosing close proximity network connections, such as Bluetooth or cellular network-connected devices, gives more protection against intruders. Wi-Fi connections are more prone to vulnerabilities and unwanted connections, so go for Wi-Fi-based devices only when necessary.
Learn The Device's Capabilities During Setup.
Understand the device's capabilities during setup. Read through the user manual, as well as the terms and conditions. Understanding how various IoT devices work and how they can pose a risk to privacy and security can give you a significant advantage when planning purchases and protecting your devices.
Be Aware Of All Connected Devices In Your Home.
Know what devices are connected to your access points and routers, regardless of the connectivity type used (whether it is cellular, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth or even LoRa). The diversity of access technologies can be overwhelming, but it is important to track what is connected to your home hub(s). If you can't trust, don't connect.
Buy Encrypted, Secure Versions Of Devices.
Buy encrypted, secure versions of whatever device you need. For example, many baby monitors now come with encrypted livestreaming capabilities, and you can even encrypt your Wi-Fi without much hassle. Make sure your devices are updated frequently and that you use secure passwords or two-factor authentication.
Question Overly Complex Or Intrusive Devices.
Question devices that seem overly complex or that collect more data than seems necessary for functionality. For example, a smart baby monitor shouldn't need to gather location data or changes in Wi-Fi SSIDs. Scrutinize whether the convenience being offered is truly worth the privacy trade-off.
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