Make your smart home smarter
Smart devices, like smart TVs and smart speakers, connect to each other via the internet. You can control and monitor them remotely, or they can work automatically through a variety of software A computer program that provides instructions which enable the computer hardware to work. System software, such as Windows, Linux or MacOS, operate the machine itself, and applications software, such as spreadsheet or word processing programs, provide specific functionality.
, cameras and sensors.
There are many types of smart devices and the list is growing every day.
Risks to you
Hacking
Hacking Hacking is a term used to describe actions taken by someone to gain unauthorized access to a device. The availability of information online on the tools, techniques, and malware makes it easier for even non-technical people to undertake malicious activities.
is any action taken to get unauthorized access to a device or account.
Some smart devices might not have the security features to let you choose your own strong password Combination of letters and numbers you select to secure an account or device.
, leaving you vulnerable to hacking.
Privacy
Smart devices can capture and transmit so much private information about us, our daily routines, our fitness and our health habits, and our personal banking and payment information. It’s important to understand how smart device Web-enabled smart devices transmit information gathered from their surroundings using embedded sensors, software and processors. Smart devices communicate with one another (machine to machine) or with us through our smartphones. After initial setup, most smart devices work automatically, collecting and sending information.
manufacturers are using this information and if they are selling it to advertisers and other third parties.
Protect your privacy at home
Don’t settle for defaults
Change the manufacturer's default A setting automatically chosen by a program or computer that remains until the user specifies another setting.
usernames and use strong passwords for your Wi-Fi Wi-Fi refers to a set of wireless communication protocols that can transmit traffic to Wi-Fi enabled devices within a local area. A Wi-Fi enabled device such as a laptop or tablet can connect to the internet when within range of a wireless network connected to the internet. An area covered by one or more Wi-Fi access points is commonly called a hotspot.
network Several computers that are connected to one another.
and smart devices. Don't use anything that could be associated with your name, address, or phone number.
Keep your devices updated
Use up-to-date security software Identifies and protects against threats or vulnerabilities that may compromise your computer or your personal information; includes anti-virus and anti-spyware software and firewalls.
on your home computer and connected devices. Turn automatic updates on when available or update Updates to software and devices add new features, fix bugs, and often contain new security features to protect against attacks.
your connected devices as soon as you’re prompted. Learn more about updates.
Use a separate network
To limit the damage of a cyber attack The use of electronic means to interrupt, manipulate, destroy, or gain unauthorized access to a computer system, network, or device.
, separate your smart devices from your main network. Ask your service provider for help to create a ‘guest' network for your connected devices.
Stick to what you need
Features like Bluetooth An industry standard for short-range wireless connections between devices like mobile phones, headsets, computers and PDAs.
, geolocation, cameras, and microphones can and should be turned off when you’re not using them so they can’t be accessed by a potential hacker. If you only use a smart device occasionally, turn it off or disconnect it from the internet when you’re not using it.
