Using an Internet of Things Device : So you just got a new smart device for your home network, congrats! Whether it’s a security camera, smart speaker, or some other Internet of Things gadget, connecting it to your Wi-Fi opens up a lot of cool features. But it also creates potential privacy and security risks if you don’t take the right precautions. That’s where this article comes in. In the next 100 words or so, we’ll walk through best practices for setting up and using IoT devices safely. Stick with us and you’ll have that new toy configured securely in no time without compromising convenience. Let’s dive in!
Do Your Research Before Buy Using an Internet of Things Device
Before you purchase an Internet of Things (IoT) device to connect in your home, do some research on the product and company first. This will help ensure your new smart device is secure and respects your privacy.
Check online reviews of the specific IoT product you’re interested in. See what other people say about things like ease of setup, reliability, customer service and any security or privacy concerns. Look for reviews from reputable technology sites and experts. Also search for the product name along with terms like “security risk” or “privacy issue” to find potential downsides.
Investigate the company behind the IoT device as well. Do they have a good track record of issuing software updates to patch any vulnerabilities found in their products? Have there been any major security incidents with their devices in the past? The company’s privacy policy should clearly explain what data they collect and how they use it. Make sure you understand and are okay with the amount of data they gather before buying one of their products.
Consider if the cool features of the smart device are really worth the potential risks. Some IoT products like smart speakers, security cameras and doorbells can be tempting, but also gather a lot of data about you and your home. Think about whether these benefits outweigh concerns over how much of that data may be shared or hacked. If you have doubts, you may want to avoid purchasing that type of IoT device altogether.
Once you buy an IoT product, be sure to enable all security features like two-factor authentication where available. Regularly check for any software or firmware updates which often contain important security patches. And if you ever have concerns about a device, don’t hesitate to contact the company’s customer support. Doing some homework on the front end and remaining vigilant after purchasing an IoT device are the keys to reducing risks and staying safe in our connected world.
Set Up Strong Passwords and Enable Two-Factor Authentication
To protect your Internet of Things (IoT) device and home network, enabling strong account security is crucial. Hackers are constantly trying to access connected devices to steal data or gain control, so you need to make their job as difficult as possible.
When setting up your IoT device for the first time, create a secure password with a minimum of 15 characters, including a mix of letters, numbers and symbols. Avoid using common words or personal information. Hackers have tools that can quickly guess weak, simple passwords. A strong, unique password for each of your connected devices is the first line of defense.
Enable two-factor authentication on your IoT device if available. This adds an extra layer of security for your account logins. When two-factor authentication is enabled, signing in requires not only your password but also a code sent to your phone via text message or an authentication app. So, even if your password is stolen, hackers still can’t log in without access to your phone.
Many IoT devices give you the option to change default passwords and enable two-factor authentication during initial setup, so look for those options in the configuration screens. If not available there, check your device’s mobile app or web portal. Enabling these security features may take an extra few minutes during setup but will help ensure your device remains protected from unauthorized access.
Your IoT device contains personal information and controls access to your home, so safeguarding it should be a top priority. Strong, unique passwords and two-factor authentication are two of the best ways to make your connected technology more secure from the moment it’s set up. Enable these defenses as soon as you unbox a new “smart” device—your data, privacy and home security depend on it!
Keep Firmware and Software Up-to-Date
One of the most important things you can do to keep your smart home device secure is to regularly update its firmware and software. Firmware is the permanent software installed on the device that controls its basic functions. Regular updates often contain security patches to fix vulnerabilities that could be exploited.
Check for Updates Frequently
You should check for available updates to your device’s firmware and software at least once a month. Many IoT devices can automatically check for updates and notify you when they’re available to install. Be sure to enable this feature if available for your device. If your device does not automatically check for updates, log in to the mobile app or web interface periodically to manually check for and install any updates.
Install Updates Promptly
Once an update becomes available for your smart device, install it as soon as possible. Updates frequently contain important security patches to close vulnerabilities that hackers could exploit to gain access to your device or network. The sooner you install an update, the less time there is for vulnerabilities to potentially be targeted.
Consider Resetting Default Passwords
After installing an update, it is a good security practice to reset your device to factory default settings. Then, go through the initial setup process again to create a new strong, unique password. Resetting the device helps ensure any previous vulnerabilities have been fully patched, and choosing a new complex password further protects against unauthorized access.
Monitor for Issues After Updates
In rare cases, firmware or software updates can cause temporary issues with device functionality. Monitor your smart home device closely for a few days after any update to ensure it is working properly. Check that any connected components, like smart lights, thermostats or door locks, are also functioning correctly. Report any problems to the device manufacturer’s support team right away.
Keeping the firmware and software on your IoT devices up-to-date is one of the best ways to ensure maximum security and performance. While it only takes a few minutes of your time, it can help prevent unauthorized access and keep your smart home running smoothly. Staying on top of available updates and promptly installing them should be an important part of your device maintenance routine.
Connect IoT Devices to a Separate Network
Smart home devices like security cameras, smart speakers, and smart thermostats are convenient, but they also come with risks to your privacy and security. The safest approach is to connect your IoT gadgets to a separate Wi-Fi network from your personal devices.
- Set up a second wireless router for your smart home devices. Give this network a different name and password than your main network. Only connect IoT devices to this separate router.
- This isolates your smart devices from direct access to your personal computers, tablets and phones. Even if there were a security issue with an IoT device, it wouldn’t have direct access to your primary network and the data on those machines.
- Use a different password for each network. Don’t reuse the same login credentials across networks. This makes it more difficult for someone to gain access if one network is compromised.
- Enable security features like WPA3 or WPA2-PSK encryption, firewalls and automatic firmware updates on your routers. These help safeguard both your primary network and your IoT network.
- Consider using a virtual private network or VPN on your main network. A VPN adds an extra layer of protection for your personal devices by encrypting all the data you send and receive. It also masks your real IP address when connected to public networks.
By taking a few extra precautions, you can enjoy the benefits of connected smart home gadgets with less risk. Separating IoT devices onto their own network is one of the smartest steps you can take for home security in an age of always-on internet connectivity. Your data and privacy will thank you.
Limit Data Collection and Disable Unnecessary Features
To protect your privacy and security, limit how much data your smart devices collect and disable any features you don’t use.
Restrict data sharing settings
Go through the settings of each of your Internet of Things (IoT) devices and disable options to share data with the manufacturer or third parties. Only share data that is necessary for the device to function properly. For example, disable options to share location data, browsing history, or personal information.
Turn off unused features
Many smart devices come with extra features that you may never use. For instance, if you have a smart speaker but only use it to play music, turn off options like voice purchasing or smart home control. The more features that are enabled, the more avenues there are for potential hacking or data collection. Stick to using only what you need.
Update software and firmware regularly
Make a habit of checking for software and firmware updates for your IoT devices at least once a month. Updates often contain important security patches to protect against vulnerabilities. Enable automatic updating if possible so you don’t have to remember to check.
Use strong and unique passwords
Never use default passwords that come with smart devices. Choose long, complex passwords that contain a mix of letters, numbers and symbols. Use a different password for each device. If available, enable two-factor authentication which adds an extra layer of security for your accounts.
Consider a separate network
If you have a large number of connected smart home devices, consider setting up a separate network just for them. A “smart home” network can keep your other personal devices more secure if one of your IoT devices is compromised. Make sure any routers or hubs on the separate network also have strong passwords and the latest updates.
Limiting data collection and tightening security on your smart devices helps reduce risks to your privacy while still allowing you to enjoy the benefits of an connected home. Take some time to lock down your settings and disable what you don’t need—your personal information will thank you.
Conclusion
So there you have it – by taking a few basic security precautions like changing default passwords, keeping software updated, connecting IoT devices to a separate network, and limiting permissions, you can tap into the convenience of smart home devices without compromising your privacy or opening yourself up to attacks. It may take a bit more effort upfront, but putting in place smart IoT usage habits will save you headaches down the road. Weigh the risks and rewards as you integrate more IoT into your life, stay vigilant about new threats, and your networked sphere can remain a personalized oasis.
