Don’t let smart home devices compromise your cybersecurity.
Today, the average American household is filled with smart devices. From smart washers and dryers to smart thermostats to smart fridges, your options abound. Unfortunately, the more internet-connected devices you have in your home, the greater your risk for a cyberattack. To protect your personal information from online criminals, take these precautionary measures.
- Switch Off Cameras and Microphones on Your Devices
Many smart TVs and voice-controlled devices have cameras and microphones that can record you without your knowledge. If a hacker gains access to these devices, then they can secretly watch and listen to you and your family. To prevent this terrifying scenario, always manually switch off the cameras and microphones on your devices when they are not in use.
- Update Your Devices Frequently
Manufactures of internet-connected devices are always on the lookout for emerging threats and weaknesses in their defenses. They are quick to respond to vulnerabilities by releasing device updates that fix bugs and improve user security. To ensure that you have the most updated security measures in place, update all your devices as prompted.
- Secure Devices with Unique Usernames and Passwords
Many homeowners make the mistake of securing all their devices with the same username and password combination. This is risky because as soon as a hacker breaks one device, they can access all your other ones. To prevent this from happening, create unique usernames and passwords that incorporate a mix of uppercase letters, lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols. Security experts also recommend leaving identifying information out of your login credentials. For instance, your usernames and passwords should not include your name, address, contact information, birthday, and so on.
Take these steps to safeguard your personal information. Want another way to keep your home safe? Then make sure you have the right homeowners insurance in place. For assistance with all your home coverage needs, contact the experts at Weaver & Associates in Arcadia, California, today.