Protecting Your Smart Home from Cyber Attacks
Cyber attacks on smart homes with digital automation systems have become a dreaded reoccurrence to many homeowners. Hackers are able to easily get the access to your routers or the whole system that the house runs on.
Owners need to be cautious and never leave the devices on when leaving the house, and to take other precautions such as those outlined below.
Install an Increased Security Router
Your router can be an easy target for hackers when it is not protected with a password.
Make sure that you buy a trustworthy router, which would be the one with the best reviews online. You should set up your own password just to be on the safe side, and don’t forget to change the default one. Hackers can find the default passwords on the web. Don’t make their job easier!
Update Smart Home Devices
Have all of your devices up-to-date and don’t make it a habit to ignore and postpone them. These updates can be crucial in order to save you from hackers and cyber attacks.
Oftentimes, a security update is included and all of the protection that shields your home from attacks. You can start by setting reminders about them or going through all the recommendations for updates from time to time. If you do that, there won’t be a chance of you missing out on any possible updates.
Install Malware Protection
The best way to protect your computer or phone is to download an antivirus program. This can protect you from a lot of scams and viruses and prevent hackers from attacking as well.
You can find a free antivirus program or purchase one online, just make sure not to download unknown programs. Ask your friends for suggestions or find good reviews online before deciding which one to download. An example of a good free antivirus program is Sophos Antivirus. McAfee antivirus is a great example of a malware protection program that you pay for.
Check Wireless Encryption
There are some wireless encryptions, typically the older versions that can be hacked quite easily, in the matter of minutes. Make sure to check if the encryption on your wireless is active and not completely open.
If you have a padlock on your wireless network it means that you are protected in some way. You should check if this encryption is a WPA2. If not, then you should change it as soon as you can. Other types of encryption are outdated and old versions that might not give you the needed protection. A great example of an outdated encryption is a WEP standard.
Switch Off The Router When You’re Not Using It
Remember to turn your router off every time you leave your home. There’s no need to leave it on when you don’t need it. This can help you avoid potential cyber attacks on your home or simply, save electricity.
Don’t just turn it off when you are leaving for a longer period of time. Make it a habit to turn the device off every time you leave the house. Hackers could be preparing to attack at any moment, so don’t take chances.