If It Connects, Protect It: Maximize Security on Your Devices

Updated: August 23, 2024

According to a report by Statista, the number of homes using smart home devices is projected to surpass 400 million by the end of 2024. Smart home devices can fall into several categories such as consumer electronics, safety and security devices, climate control, lighting control, and energy and water control. While they offer many benefits, they also come with potential risks. To maximize security on your devices, follow these six steps.

1. Secure Your Wi-Fi Network

Changing the factory default password on your new device, such as your internet router password, is important. Hackers can easily find these passwords on message boards. A good rule of thumb is to create a password that uses 14 characters. This includes various numbers, symbols, and capitalization. Check out these 8 Tips for Creating Secure Account Passwords.

2. Enable Two-Factor Authentication

Two-factor authentication offers an additional layer of security by requiring users to pass through two forms of authentication before accessing their accounts. This can include sending a numeric code to an email address or cell phone number for verification. Sites such as Facebook, Google, Instagram, Amazon, Microsoft, and Apple offer two-factor authentication. Google has a video available on how this works.

3. Update App Permissions

Apps don’t need all of your personal information so don’t give it away! When you sign up for a new app or initiate an app upgrade, they may ask for access to additional information such as your contact list, calendar, microphone, location, and photos. Always ask yourself if this is something the app really needs.

4. Never Use Unknown Devices

Never connect an unknown external hard drive, CD, or USB to your computer. According to a Google study about USB Security, nearly 50% of people will plug a found memory stick into their computer. These could have malicious software that will compromise your computer and network.

5. Don’t Access Public Wi-Fi

This is a tough one to follow, but very necessary. Hackers can access your device very easily via public Wi-Fi. Turn off the “automatic connect” setting on your phone to safeguard against unwanted Wi-Fi connections. A safer alternative is to set up a personal Wi-Fi hotspot through your phone settings.

6. Update All Your Devices

Software updates may seem like a hassle, but they protect your device against dangerous malware. Some of your smart home devices may not update automatically, so be sure to take time each month to ensure they’re using the latest software.