Isolating your smart devices on a separate Wi-Fi network is a crucial security measure. This prevents potential damage from spreading if one device is compromised . By segregating your smart devices, you create a barrier between them and your primary network, enhancing security .
Most routers allow you to create ‘guest networks’ for this purpose. Here’s how to set it up:
Access Router Settings: Open a web browser and enter your router’s IP address . Log in using your router’s credentials, which can be found on the router itself or in its manual .
Create a New Network: Look for options like “Guest Network” or “Secondary Network” . Create a separate connection specifically for your smart gadgets . Give it a unique name (SSID) and password . Some routers, like those from TP-Link and ASUS, may even have a dedicated “IoT Network” feature .
Connect Your IoT Devices: On each smart device, go to the network settings and choose the new, separate network during setup . Enter the unique password you created .
Test and Monitor: Ensure all devices are functioning correctly on the new network . Regularly check for security patches and firmware updates for both your devices and router .
Using separate SSIDs for . GHz and GHz networks can help manage devices that only operate on the .GHz band . Connecting all smart outlets to a guest .GHz Wi-Fi network avoids needing to separate main .GHz and GHz signals . It’s important to note that devices like printers or smart TVs that need to communicate with your computer or smartphone should be on the same network . However, some routers can be configured to allow direct access to specific devices on the guest network from the main network .
Keep Firmware and Software Up to Date
One of the simplest yet most effective ways to secure your smart home devices is to ensure their firmware and software are always up to date . Updates often include critical security patches that address newly discovered vulnerabilities . Delaying updates leaves your devices exposed to potential exploitation .
Enable Automatic Updates
The easiest way to stay protected is to enable automatic updates whenever possible . This feature ensures that your devices receive the latest security patches without requiring manual intervention .
* Check Device Settings: Review the settings for each of your smart home devices and look for an option to enable automatic updates .
* Consult Manufacturer Documentation: If you’re unsure how to enable automatic updates, consult the device’s user manual or visit the manufacturer’s website for instructions .
* Router Updates: Don’t forget to regularly update your router’s firmware as well . This is often done through the router’s web interface or mobile app .
Manual Updates:
If automatic updates are not available, make it a habit to manually check for updates regularly .
* Schedule Reminders: Set reminders on your calendar to check for updates on a monthly or quarterly basis .
* Visit Manufacturer Websites: Visit the manufacturer’s website for each of your smart home devices and look for firmware or software updates .
* Install Updates Promptly: When updates are available, install them promptly to ensure you have the latest security protections .
Regularly updating your smart home devices is a small effort that can make a big difference in your overall security posture . By staying up-to-date, you can protect your devices from known vulnerabilities and reduce your risk of becoming a victim of cybercrime .
Enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)
Require two or more types of identification to make it harder for unauthorized users to access your devices . Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) is a user verification method that requires more than one type of validation and prevents bad actors from accessing an account . It is known to protect against phishing, social engineering, key logging, and brute force attacks .
How MFA Works
MFA works by requiring additional verification information (known as factors) . Users can’t log in using only user names and passwords . They must provide further proof of identity .
MFA Factors
Authentication options are split into three categories :
Something you are – like a biometric
Something you know – like a password
Something you own – like a device
Auth0 supports a variety of MFA factors, including :
Push notifications
SMS notifications
Voice notifications
One-time passwords
WebAuthn with security keys
WebAuthn with device biometrics
Email notifications
Cisco Duo security
Recovery codes
SMS codes are convenient and more secure than authentication emails . They require the user to have access to another trusted device like their smartphone, as well as the IoT device itself . It’s also a timely method and SMS-generated codes are one of the most popular methods of possession authentication .
To address the issue of password-only authorization, you can replace it with multi-factor authentication . A multi-factor authentication by its meaning implies that it uses at least two of the above-mentioned options . (So asking a user for a password and, say, a PIN or a secret phrase won’t improve the protection of your device).
Authenticator Apps
You can get that code via SMS text message (which is not a great idea) or a specialized smartphone app called an “authenticator” . Once linked to your accounts, the app displays a constantly rotating set of codes to use for logins whenever needed—it doesn’t even require an internet connection . There are numerous apps, some from big names such as Microsoft and Google, as well as Twilio Authy, Duo Mobile, and LastPass Authenticator .
Setting up MFA
Follow the below steps to configure the Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) :
Access Google Play Store using your Android device or the App Store using your Apple device and download the Microsoft Authenticator Application
Access the Microsoft Authenticator Application and configure it :
Add Account
Choose Work or school account
Open https://mfa.aub.edu.lb/multifactorauth using Google chrome browser .
Login with your AD user name and password :
Select Mobile App and click on Generate Activation Code *Note: Please try to configure your phone number as well .
Scan the barcode using the Microsoft Authenticator Application .
Click on Authenticate Me Now
You will receive a notification on your device, Approve it .
And fill the security questions
Submit
Customize MFA
You can also use Auth0 Actions to customize your MFA flow . You can require MFA only in specific circumstances or force use of a particular factor . Once multi-factor authentication is implemented into the IoT system, it’s best to incorporate it everywhere .
MFA reduces the likelihood of many types of cyber-attacks . It’s common for third parties to steal user names and passwords or programmatically attack user accounts . An additional MFA factor, such as a thumbprint or one-time password, impedes these violations .
Use Strong and Unique Passwords
A strong, unique password is your first line of defense against unauthorized access to your Wi-Fi network and smart home devices. Weak or reused passwords make it easy for attackers to compromise your security.
Creating Strong Passwords:
Length Matters: Aim for passwords that are at least characters long. The longer the password, the more difficult it is to crack.
Mix It Up: Use a combination of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols.
Avoid Personal Information: Don’t use easily guessable information like your name, birthday, or pet’s name.
Randomness is Key: The most secure passwords are random and don’t follow any predictable patterns.
Unique Passwords for Every Device:
The Risk of Reuse: Using the same password for multiple accounts means that if one account is compromised, all accounts using that password are at risk.
Smart Home Vulnerability: Smart home devices are often targeted by hackers. Using a unique password for each device helps prevent a single breach from compromising your entire smart home network.
Write Them Down Securely: Keeping track of numerous, complex passwords can be challenging.
Password Managers: Your Security Ally:
A password manager is a software application that securely stores your usernames and passwords, generating strong, unique passwords for each of your accounts. Password managers can:
Generate Strong Passwords: Create complex, random passwords that you would never be able to remember on your own.
Store Passwords Securely: Encrypt your passwords and store them in a secure vault, protecting them from theft.
Auto-Fill Logins: Automatically fill in your usernames and passwords on websites and apps, saving you time and effort.
Sync Across Devices: Sync your passwords across multiple devices, so you can access them from your computer, smartphone, and tablet.
Popular Password Managers:
Some popular password managers include:
LastPass
Password
Bitwarden
Dashlane
Consider using a password manager to generate and store complex passwords securely. This will significantly enhance the security of your Wi-Fi network and smart home devices, making it much harder for unauthorized users to gain access. Remember to choose a strong master password for your password manager, as this is the key to your entire password vault.
Implement a Next-Generation Firewall
To bolster your smart home’s defenses against increasingly sophisticated cyber threats, consider implementing a next-generation firewall (NGFW). An NGFW goes beyond the capabilities of traditional firewalls, offering advanced security features that provide deeper inspection and packet content filtering of network traffic.
What is a Next-Generation Firewall?
An NGFW is a sophisticated network security device that offers a significant advancement over traditional firewalls . It integrates a traditional firewall with other network security filtering capabilities 7. NGFWs detect and prevent complex assaults by implementing security policies at the application, port, and protocol levels .
Key Features of a Next-Generation Firewall:
Deep Packet Inspection (DPI): NGFWs can inspect traffic at higher order TCIP/IP communication layers, including the application layer . DPI is a comprehensive tool for analyzing and monitoring network traffic, detecting, identifying, categorizing, and routing or stopping packets delivering certain data or coding loads that traditional packet filtering cannot identify 7.
Intrusion Detection and Prevention Systems (IDPS): NGFWs can detect potential cyber attack vectors based on particular action patterns or abnormalities and subsequently block suspicious traffic on the network 7.
Application Awareness: NGFWs identify applications regardless of port, protocol, or IP address, allowing for granular control over application usage 7. They can recognize applications independent of port, protocol, evasive tactics, or SSL encryption and provide real-time protection against a wide range of threats, including those operating at the application layer .
Advanced Threat Protection: NGFWs help prevent known threats from getting into your networks and identify and prevent unknown malicious malware from compromising your network .
Cyber Threat Intelligence (CTI): NGFWs may receive and respond to threat intelligence feeds from outside sources, leveraging an IPS signature detection or digital footprint by analyzing the most recent malware signatures to detect and block risky IP addresses that are used to launch attacks 7.
Multiple Layered Protection: NGFWs offer multi-layered protection by inspecting traffic from layer to layer 7 and understanding the exact nature of data transfer .
Antivirus, Ransomware, and Spam Protection: An NGFW includes antivirus, ransomware, and spam protection, as well as endpoint security to protect your business data .
Access Control: Filters traffic using IAM and RBAC to block unauthorized access attempts .
Benefits of Using a Next-Generation Firewall:
Enhanced Protection Against Cyber Threats: NGFWs can inspect and analyze traffic more comprehensively than traditional firewalls, helping them detect and prevent a greater variety of cyber attacks .
Streamlined Network Architecture: NGFWs provide advanced threat protection and basic firewall capabilities, combining the capabilities of multiple devices and appliances within a single platform to help reduce network infrastructure complexity .
Versatility: NGFWs carry all the functions of traditional firewalls and also include deeper inspection and packet content filtering of network traffic .
Capability to Implement Role-Based Access: NGFWs have an inherent ability to detect user identity and can work with different user roles, limiting the scope of access for an individual and/or group .
Regularly Review Connected Devices
One of the best ways to maintain a secure smart home is to periodically check the list of devices connected to your Wi-Fi network and remove any that you don’t recognize. Unrecognized devices may indicate unauthorized access to your network.
Accessing Your Router’s Device List
Most routers provide a list of connected devices through their web interface or mobile app. Here’s how to access it:
Find Your Router’s IP Address:
Windows: Open Command Prompt and type ipconfig then press Enter. Look for the “Default Gateway” address.
macOS: Open Terminal and type netstat -nr | grep default. The IP address next to “default” is your router’s IP.
Smartphone: Use a Wi-Fi analyzer app to find your router’s IP.
Access Your Router’s Web Interface:
Open a web browser and enter your router’s IP address in the address bar.
Log In to Your Router:
Enter your router’s username and password. If you haven’t changed the default credentials, consult your router’s manual or the manufacturer’s website.
Find the Connected Devices List:
Look for sections like “Attached Devices,” “Device List,” “Connected Devices,” or “Client List.” The exact wording varies by router manufacturer.
Identifying Unknown Devices
Once you have the list of connected devices, carefully review each entry. Look for anything that seems unfamiliar or out of place.
Device Names: Pay attention to the device names. Many devices will have descriptive names (e.g., “Living Room TV,” “John’s iPhone”), but some may have generic names or strings of numbers and letters.
MAC Addresses: Each network device has a unique MAC address. You can use a MAC address lookup tool to identify the manufacturer of the device.
IP Addresses: IP addresses can also provide clues about the device’s identity.
Removing Unrecognized Devices
If you identify a device that you don’t recognize:
Change Your Wi-Fi Password: This will prevent the unknown device from reconnecting to your network.
Block the Device’s MAC Address: Most routers allow you to block specific MAC addresses from accessing your network. This ensures that the device can’t reconnect, even if it has the correct Wi-Fi password.
Investigate Further: If you suspect that your network has been compromised, consider running a virus scan on your computers and other devices. You may also want to contact a cybersecurity professional for assistance.
Regularly reviewing connected devices is a simple but effective way to detect and prevent unauthorized access to your Wi-Fi network and smart home devices. Make it a part of your routine home security practices.
Segment Your Network
Set up separate network segments for your smart home devices and other devices, such as computers and smartphones . This can help contain potential security breaches and prevent unauthorized access to sensitive data . Network segmentation divides your network into partitions that can be used to give you better security and network performance
What is Network Segmentation?
Network segmentation splits your home network into subnetworks: Instead of a single network, you have multiple networks . Every device shares the same network in a typical home or small business . This means that each device can freely see and communicate with one another . However, not all devices are the same– for example, you may want to isolate IoT devices to reduce the risk of security breaches or apply an extra level of protection to guest devices .
With network segmentation, you can split your devices among different networks to meet your performance and protection needs . For example, you can split your main local network into subnetworks: Network A, Network B, and Network C . Separating some devices from the rest of your network ensures that they aren’t covertly capturing information and only have access to the data and devices they need to function . Additionally, if a device on a subnetwork is compromised, your other network segments will remain safe .
How to Implement Network Segmentation:
Guest Networks: With an advanced router, you can take the guest network approach to another level through network segmentation . Again, the make, model, and age of your router will determine if you have the ability to use this feature . Ubiquiti routers have been popular choices . Essentially, network segmentation splits your home network into subnetworks: Instead of a single network, you have multiple networks . And just like the guest network approach, once you’ve created a subnetwork specifically for your smart home devices, they should all be connected to it . Each subnetwork can access the internet through your router, but devices on one subnetwork can’t “see” devices on another one .
VLAN-Based Segmentation: VLANs (Virtual Local Networks) are another approach that let you do segmentation beyond the number of physical ports 7. VLANs take a bit more configuration up front, and the additional hardware may be slightly more expensive . When looking for compatible equipment, look for the most common VLAN standard, 80.Q . Any switch or Wi-Fi AP that is 80.Q compatible will work with Firewalla Gold or Purple . VLANs are the only option for network segmentation on Purple since it only has one LAN port . Note that Gold does not have a limit on VLANs, but Purple is limited to .
Microsegmentation: Microsegmentation is a novel network segmentation paradigm that facilitates granular security policies within network segments as well as between segments . In smart home networks, microsegmentation performs identification and isolation of IoT devices that connect to the cloud via the residential gateway . Microsegmentation overcomes the challenges of other methods by dynamically identifying each device on the network and assessing its security, thus, building a complete device inventory and subsequently placing these devices into functional security groups that are decoupled from the underlying infrastructure .
Firewalla: Firewalla offers network segmentation, you can split your main local network into subnetworks: Network A, Network B, and Network C .
Consider Using a VPN
Use a Virtual Private Network (VPN) to encrypt data and enhance online privacy . This is especially important when it comes to camera-equipped smart devices . VPNs create secure, encrypted tunnels between devices and the internet, shielding them from prying eyes and cyberattacks .
How a VPN Works
A VPN secures your internet connection by encrypting data and masking your IP address, making it difficult for hackers to snoop or intercept your personal information . It routes your internet traffic through an encrypted tunnel .
Encryption: Strong encryption is the backbone of any VPN service. It scrambles data in such a way that even if intercepted, it’s unreadable without the correct decryption key . This means that even if a device is compromised, the data it sends and receives is protected . With a VPN, you can enjoy high-level security, such as 6-bit encryption 7. This makes all your communications online look like nonsensical, garbled text 7.
Masking IP Address: When you use a VPN, your device temporarily takes over the IP address of the VPN server, so that you cannot be traced and no one can see your IP address . Your smart devices will have the IP address of a different server whenever you use a virtual private network . This makes it more difficult for hackers to pinpoint your smart home .
Benefits of Using a VPN for Your Smart Home
Enhanced Security: A router-level VPN protects all connected devices simultaneously, especially those that lack built-in security . VPN routers are also sometimes built-in with security features like intrusion detection, firewalls, and malware protection . These features are crucial to prevent unauthorized access to your home network and block malicious content from accessing your home devices .
Privacy Protection: VPNs encrypt the data transmitted between IoT devices and the internet, protecting it from interception and unauthorized access .
Secure Remote Access: Using a VPN provides an extra layer of security, encrypting the data stream between your remote access point and smart devices . Even if a third party intercepts the communication, they won’t be able to take control or access your sensitive information . VPNs enable users to securely access and manage IoT devices over the internet, which is particularly useful for monitoring, configuring, and troubleshooting devices located in remote or hard-to-reach areas .
Protection Against Threats: You can route IoT traffic through a VPN, isolating and securing devices from such threats and reducing the risk of exploitation . Smart home devices, such as HVAC systems, can be safeguarded with a VPN to prevent attacks on home climate control .
Data Integrity: VPNs for IoT devices establish secure communication channels between devices and the internet, preventing data interception and tampering . This shields devices from man-in-the-middle attacks, where attackers attempt to manipulate communication between two parties .
Network Segmentation: IoT VPNs enable the creation of virtual private networks within larger networks, helping organizations segment and isolate devices from other network resources . This prevents potential security breaches and limits the impact of compromised IoT devices on the entire network .
VPN Router
Using the Best VPN Router allows people to enhance the security of their smart homes by offering a secure and encrypted connection to the internet . They help keep smart homes secure by encrypting all the data traffic . This encryption makes sure that if someone intercepts the data packets, they can’t decipher them without the encryption key . VPN routers create a secure and encrypted tunnel for devices to connect to the internet, protecting them from potential attacks and ensuring that their sensitive information remains safe and protected . Also, when you route your internet traffic through a VPN server, the VPN routers hide your IP address, which prevents other malicious actors from tracking all your online activities .
Kill Switch Feature
Some VPN services offer a kill switch feature that provides peace of mind if this happens . The kill switch automatically cuts off your internet access if your VPN connection drops . This prevents any unencrypted data transmission until the VPN connection is established again .
By using a VPN, you can create a secure and private connection for your smart home devices, protecting them from a variety of cyber threats.
Smart Home Security Risks
Be aware of weak passwords, outdated firmware, insecure networks, third-party apps and integrations, and privacy violations . Smart home devices, such as smart locks, cameras, and thermostats, are vulnerable to various cyber threats, including malware, hacking, and unauthorized access . It’s important to understand these threats to mitigate potential breaches . An estimated 80% of IoT devices are vulnerable to a wide range of attacks .
Specific Risks to be Aware Of
Weak or Default Passwords: A lot of smart devices come with default passwords that don’t often change from product to product, making it easy for knowledgeable hackers to break into your device . If your password is weak or can be easily figured out—like your address—that is also a pathway inside . Your device is not secure if a criminal can guess the password used to access your smart device . This would allow them to log into your device and use it to disrupt your privacy or carry out further attacks .
Outdated Firmware: Many smart devices aren’t regularly updated, leaving them vulnerable to security flaws which can then be exploited by hackers . Some IoT home devices are rushed to market, and their security may not have been adequately addressed .
Insecure Networks: Don’t leave your home WiFi network open for anyone to use . Cybercriminals can easily break into your smart appliances through an unsecured network .
Third-Party Apps and Integrations: Smart home ecosystems consist of a diverse range of devices from different manufacturers, each with its own security standards and protocols . Poorly integrated devices may introduce security vulnerabilities .
Overprivileged Apps: Smart applications are given the privilege to operate on a device, and they are designed to perform certain actions, and many smart apps will have more access than they need which gives the user expanded convenience but potentially puts them in danger .
Data Breaches and Identity Theft: Cyber attackers can steal data and sensitive personal information from any unprotected smart home device .
Man-in-the-middle: An attacker breaches, interrupts, or spoofs communications between two systems .
Device hijacking: Attackers take control of a device .
Secure Individual Device Types
Each type of smart home device presents unique security considerations. Tailoring your security approach to the specific device can significantly reduce vulnerabilities .
Smart Cameras and Doorbells: Use strong passwords, update firmware regularly, and disable public sharing features unless necessary . VPN use is important when it comes to camera-equipped smart devices .
Voice Assistants: Turn off purchasing via voice command and review privacy settings frequently to control data access .
Smart Appliances: Choose reputable brands and keep firmware up to date .
Connected Thermostats: Configure security settings, use strong passwords, and monitor usage patterns for unauthorized access .
Security Systems: Opt for systems with robust encryption and secure wireless communication protocols . Enforcing ideal password policies like frequent password changes can also help with this strategy .
Secure Your Wi-Fi Network
To safeguard your smart home, securing your Wi-Fi network is paramount. This involves using a strong, unique password and enabling WPA or WPA encryption . Adding a password to your wireless router can stop neighbors from stealing your internet and prevents hackers from tapping into your devices, accounts, and data on your Wi-Fi network .
Strong and Unique Passwords
Password Length and Complexity: The strongest Wi-Fi passwords are typically characters or longer and include a mix of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols .
Avoid Personal Information: Don’t include personal details or dates in your Wi-Fi password . Any personal information that someone can glean about you should stay out of your passwords .
Randomness is Key: The best Wi-Fi passwords don’t form complete words or phrases; instead, they often appear to be jumbles of nonsensical characters .
Password Managers: Consider using a password manager to store your Wi-Fi network password and other passwords for your important accounts and information .
Regular Password Changes: Get in the habit of changing your Wi-Fi password once every 90 days or so . This stops unwanted Wi-Fi guests from continuing to use your Wi-Fi network even if they luckily guess your initial password setup .
WPA/WPA Encryption
When setting up your password, select WPA-PSK (AES) . Some routers may display either WPA or WPA-PSK instead .
Enable WPA encryption on the Wi-Fi network .
Use Strong Security Software
To prevent the installation of malware or infection by viruses, it’s essential to use strong security software on your computers and smartphones . Protecting your smartphones and tablets should be a priority to keep your information away from hackers and fraudsters .
Here are some of the best antivirus software options for safeguarding your devices:
Norton 60: Offers unbeatable virus and malware protection and works well across Windows, Android, and iOS . It uses a unique scanning engine powered by heuristic analysis and machine learning, making it capable of removing the newest and most advanced types of malware . Norton 60 includes a secure firewall, password manager, phishing protection, VPN, dark web monitoring, identity theft protections, optimization tools, parental controls, Wi-Fi security alerts (Android and iOS only), cloud storage, and ransomware protection .
Bitdefender Total Security: Has an extremely advanced antivirus engine that utilizes a massive malware database, machine learning, and artificial intelligence to detect and protect against malware . The malware scans take place on Bitdefender’s cloud server, so there’s no strain on your device . It has web protection, a vulnerability scanner, a system optimizer, a VPN (00 MB/daily on most plans), parental controls, a password manager, webcam protection, ransomware protection, and identity theft protections .
TotalAV Mobile Security: Is a top choice for those looking for 00% malware protection and offers maximum internet security functions like WiFi protection, VPN, and cleanup tools . It is very good at scanning and identifying malware within seconds . TotalAV is the best free antivirus for Android because of its unlimited free plan, excellent malware protection rates, and real-time security from threats .
McAfee Total Protection: Has a great range of internet security features, including malware protection, anti-phishing protection, a password manager, a VPN, and identity theft monitoring and coverage . It offers excellent virus protection with a 00% detection rate against all malware samples . McAfee has mobile apps for both iOS and Android, which include the VPN, web protections, and a scanner that alerts you if you try to connect to unsafe Wi-Fi networks . There is also a Scam Protection feature that warns you about dangerous links in emails, texts, social media, and web browsers .
Surfshark Antivirus: Has reliable antivirus capabilities with a high hit rate when it comes to blocking malware attacks . It has VPN functionality, ID data monitoring, and a private search feature . Your credit card details, e-mail messages, and IDs will always be safe with Surfshark .
Avira Security Antivirus: Has useful features and a solid protection framework . Avira has a user-friendly dashboard so it’s easy to set it up very quickly . Avira’s features include VPN functionality, identity safeguard, network scanning, and a system optimization tool . There is a mic and call blocker as well as a webcam protection feature that prevents external forces from gaining access and control of your device .
Malwarebytes: NordVPN Threat Protection Lite is an amazing antivirus software designed to protect mobile devices from security threats . This software adds an extra layer of security to the security layout that comes with your device for further reinforcement . NordVPN is lightweight and quite effective for preventing users from accessing harmful websites and links .
Installing and regularly updating strong security software is a critical step in protecting your devices and data from the ever-evolving threat landscape.
Use Screen Lock
Utilize the screen lock feature on your smartphone to ensure no one can access it in your absence . This simple yet effective measure prevents unauthorized access to your device and the sensitive information it contains.
Why Use a Screen Lock?
Protects Your Data: Your smartphone likely contains a wealth of personal information, including contacts, emails, photos, financial data, and more. A screen lock prevents others from accessing this information if your phone is lost or stolen.
Prevents Unauthorized Use: A screen lock prevents others from using your phone without your permission, such as making calls, sending texts, or accessing your social media accounts.
Enhances Privacy: A screen lock ensures that your private communications and activities remain confidential.
Types of Screen Locks:
Most smartphones offer several options for securing your screen:
PIN Code: A numeric passcode that you must enter to unlock your phone. Choose a PIN that is difficult to guess and avoid using easily identifiable numbers like your birthday or address.
Password: A more complex combination of letters, numbers, and symbols. Passwords offer stronger security than PIN codes but can be more difficult to remember.
Pattern: A sequence of dots that you must swipe across the screen to unlock your phone. Patterns are generally less secure than PIN codes or passwords.
Biometric Authentication: Uses your unique biological characteristics to unlock your phone. Common biometric options include:
Fingerprint Scanner: Scans your fingerprint to verify your identity.
Facial Recognition: Scans your face to verify your identity.
Enabling Screen Lock:
The process for enabling screen lock varies depending on your smartphone’s operating system. However, the general steps are as follows:
Android: Go to Settings > Security > Screen Lock and choose your preferred lock type.
iOS: Go to Settings > Face ID & Passcode (or Touch ID & Passcode) and turn on Passcode.
Tips for Using Screen Lock Effectively:
Choose a Strong Lock Method: Opt for a PIN code or password rather than a pattern for greater security.
Enable Auto-Lock: Set your phone to automatically lock after a short period of inactivity.
Keep Your Lock Method Confidential: Don’t share your PIN code or password with anyone.
Consider Biometric Authentication: If your phone offers biometric authentication, enable it for added convenience and security.
By using a screen lock, you can significantly enhance the security of your smartphone and protect your personal information from unauthorized access. It’s a simple step that can make a big difference in your overall security posture.
Isolate Your Smart Home Network
Isolate your smart home network from your other networks. This prevents potential damage from spreading if one device is compromised . When a hacker is able to access your home’s WiFi, they can access every device that’s connected to it, including computers, phones, and smart devices . An even bigger concern is when they use one device to gain access to another.
Why Isolate Your Smart Home Network?
Contain Security Breaches: By isolating your smart home devices on a separate network, you prevent a potential security breach from spreading to your other devices, such as computers, smartphones, and tablets, which may contain sensitive personal or financial information.
Protect Sensitive Data: Keep smart home devices away from your critical data, such as banking and personal details, to help protect your personal information .
Reduce Attack Surface: By limiting the number of devices that can communicate with your smart home devices, you reduce the attack surface and make it more difficult for hackers to gain access.
Improve Network Performance: Separating your smart home devices onto a dedicated network can improve the overall performance of your network by reducing congestion and interference.
How to Isolate Your Smart Home Network
Here are some strategies for isolating your smart home network:
Create a Guest Network: Many modern routers offer a “guest network” feature that allows you to create a separate Wi-Fi network with its own password. You can connect your smart home devices to the guest network and keep them isolated from your main network. Some routers, like those from TP-Link and ASUS, may even have a dedicated “IoT Network” feature .
Use a Separate Router: For even greater isolation, consider using a separate router specifically for your smart home devices. Connect the second router to your primary router and create a separate Wi-Fi network for your smart devices.
VLANs (Virtual LANs): Another option, for more advanced users, is to set up VLANs (Virtual LANs) to segment the network and isolate smart home devices from other networks.
Advantages of isolating your smart home network
Protects sensitive data by restricting the number of connections.
Prevents hackers from infecting multiple devices with malware.
Improves network performance.
Change Default Credentials
Change default credentials during device setup. Default usernames and passwords are a major security risk because they are publicly available. This means anyone can potentially access your device if you don’t change them. Default usernames and passwords also make it easy for cybercriminals to create automated attacks that target vulnerable devices.
Why Change Default Credentials?
Easy to Guess: Default usernames and passwords are well-known and easily searchable online. Hackers often target devices with default credentials, making them an easy target.
Automated Attacks: Cybercriminals can use automated tools to scan for devices with default credentials and then attempt to log in.
Compromise Your Entire Network: If a hacker gains access to one device on your network, they can potentially use it to access other devices and sensitive information.
How to Change Default Credentials
Consult the Manual: Check the device’s user manual or the manufacturer’s website for instructions on how to change the default username and password.
Access the Device’s Settings: Most devices allow you to change the username and password through a web interface or a mobile app.
Choose a Strong Password: Use a strong, unique password that is difficult to guess. A strong password should be at least characters long and include a mix of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols.
Change the Username: If possible, change the default username as well as the password.
Keep Credentials Secure: Store your new username and password in a secure location, such as a password manager.
When to Change Default Credentials
During Initial Setup: The best time to change default credentials is during the initial setup of the device.
After a Security Incident: If you suspect that your device has been compromised, change the credentials immediately.
Periodically: It’s a good practice to change your credentials periodically, even if you haven’t experienced any security issues.
Disable Unnecessary Features
Disable unnecessary features to reduce potential vulnerabilities . Smart home devices often come with features that you may not need or use, but that could potentially expose your device to security risks. By disabling these features, you can minimize the attack surface and improve your overall security posture.
Why Disable Unnecessary Features?
Reduced Attack Surface: Every feature on a device is a potential entry point for hackers. By disabling unnecessary features, you reduce the number of potential vulnerabilities that can be exploited.
Improved Performance: Disabling unnecessary features can improve the performance of your device by freeing up resources.
Enhanced Privacy: Some features may collect and transmit data about your usage habits. Disabling these features can help protect your privacy.
How to Disable Unnecessary Features
Consult the Manual: Check the device’s user manual or the manufacturer’s website for instructions on how to disable specific features.
Access the Device’s Settings: Most devices allow you to disable features through a web interface or a mobile app.
Identify Unused Features: Review the device’s features and identify any that you don’t need or use.
Disable Features One by One: Disable features one at a time and test the device to ensure that it continues to function as expected.
Consider Factory Reset: If you’re unsure which features to disable, you can try performing a factory reset on the device and then only enabling the features that you need.
Examples of Features to Consider Disabling
Remote Access: If you don’t need to access your device remotely, disable remote access to prevent unauthorized access from the internet.
Universal Plug and Play (UPnP): UPnP is a networking protocol that allows devices to automatically discover and communicate with each other. However, UPnP can also be exploited by hackers to gain access to your network. Consider disabling UPnP on your router unless it’s absolutely necessary.
Guest Access: If you don’t need to provide guest access to your device, disable the guest access feature.
Bluetooth: If you’re not using Bluetooth, disable it to prevent unauthorized connections.
Voice Control: If you don’t use voice control, disable it to prevent unauthorized access through voice commands.
Location Services: If you don’t need location services, disable them to protect your privacy.
Cloud Services: Many smart devices offer cloud-based services that can be convenient, but they can also expose your data to security risks. Consider disabling cloud services if you’re not using them.
FAQ: Securing Your Smart Home Devices
Here are some frequently asked questions about securing your smart home devices, based on the topics covered:
General Security
Q: Why is smart home security important?
A: Smart home devices can be vulnerable to hacking, potentially exposing your personal information, allowing unauthorized access to your home, and even causing physical harm (e.g., manipulating smart locks or thermostats).
Q: What’s the first step in securing my smart home?
A: Change the default username and password on all your smart devices and your Wi-Fi router. These are often publicly known and make your devices easy targets.
Q: How often should I update my smart home devices?
A: As often as updates are available! Enable automatic updates whenever possible. Otherwise, check for updates at least monthly.
Q: What is Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)?
A: MFA requires two or more forms of verification to access your accounts and devices, making it much harder for hackers to break in, even if they have your password.
Q: Should I create a separate Wi-Fi network for my smart home devices?
A: Yes, isolating your smart devices on a separate “guest” network can prevent a compromised device from affecting your computers, phones, and other sensitive devices on your main network.
Q: What is WPA and why should I use it?
A: WPA is the latest Wi-Fi security protocol. It offers stronger encryption and better protection against password cracking than older protocols like WPA. If your router supports it, enable it!
Q: What if my router doesn’t support guest networks or WPA?
A: Consider upgrading to a newer router that offers these security features.
Q: What’s a VPN and how can it help?
A: A VPN (Virtual Private Network) encrypts your internet traffic, protecting your data from being intercepted. Using a VPN, especially with camera-equipped devices, can significantly enhance your privacy and security
