Smart Home Security Risks: Protecting Connected Devices
Smart technology has changed the way homeowners protect and manage their homes. Security cameras can send alerts directly to your phone. Video doorbells let you see who is at the door when you are away. Smart locks, alarm systems, thermostats, and other connected devices can all be managed remotely.
That convenience can be valuable, but every device connected to your home network also needs to be properly secured.
Protecting a smart home means thinking about more than doors and windows. Your passwords, Wi-Fi network, mobile apps, and connected devices should be part of your home security plan too.
Start With Your Home Wi-Fi Network
Your Wi-Fi network connects many of the devices throughout your home. That can include computers and phones as well as cameras, doorbells, smart TVs, thermostats, speakers, and other technology.
Because so many devices rely on the same network, protecting your home Wi-Fi should be an important part of your smart home security plan.
The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) recommends using a strong password for your home Wi-Fi router and considering a separate network for smart home devices. This can help separate devices such as smart doorbells and other connected technology from computers that may contain sensitive personal or financial information.
NIST also recommends several other smart home security practices, including using unique passwords, enabling two-factor authentication, reviewing privacy settings, and keeping devices updated automatically when possible.
Use Strong, Unique Passwords
Reusing the same password across several accounts can create unnecessary risk.
Your security camera account, smart home app, email, and other important services should each have strong, unique passwords. If one account is compromised, using different passwords can help prevent the same credentials from providing access to your other accounts.
Whenever available, turn on multifactor authentication, sometimes called MFA or two-factor authentication. This adds another verification step when someone attempts to access your account.
Keep Smart Devices Updated
Software updates are not only about adding new features.
Manufacturers may release updates to correct security problems or improve how a device operates. Ignoring updates can leave older weaknesses in place.
Check whether your smart home devices can install updates automatically. If automatic updates are available from a trusted manufacturer, enabling them can make it easier to keep equipment current.
Do not forget about devices you rarely interact with. A camera mounted outside or a smart device tucked away in another room may still need updates even if you have not opened its app recently.
NIST also recommends considering replacing or retiring older smart devices that can no longer receive security updates.
Review Who Has Access
Smart home systems often make it easy to share access with family members, guests, house sitters, or service providers.
Over time, it is easy to forget who still has permission.
Periodically review the users connected to your smart home and security accounts. Remove access that is no longer needed. If someone moves out of the home or should no longer have access, update permissions promptly.
The same idea applies to smart locks. Temporary or individual access codes can be useful because you can remove a specific person’s access without changing how everyone else enters the home.
Pay Attention to Cameras and Video Doorbells
Connected cameras can provide valuable visibility around your property, but they should be protected carefully.
Use strong account security and keep camera software current. Review privacy and sharing settings so you understand who can view recordings or live video.
You should also think carefully about where indoor cameras are installed. Avoid placing them where they could unnecessarily capture sensitive or private activity.
A professionally designed residential security system can help homeowners combine cameras, intrusion detection, monitoring, and other security features into a system that fits the home.
Be Careful with Unexpected Messages
A message claiming there is a problem with your smart home account can create a sense of urgency.
Be cautious with unexpected emails or text messages asking you to click a link, enter your password, or verify account information. Instead of following the link, open the manufacturer’s official app or website yourself to check the account.
The same caution should apply to unexpected login or password-reset notifications. If you receive one you did not request, review your account security.
Don’t Forget Physical Security
Connected technology is only one part of protecting a home.
Smart locks still need strong doors and properly installed hardware. Security cameras work best when they are positioned correctly. Alarm sensors need to be installed and maintained properly.
Technology should support good security habits, not replace them.
Lock doors and windows, arm your security system when appropriate, review security alerts, and periodically check that cameras and sensors are operating as expected.
Make Your Smart Home a Secure Home
Smart home technology can make residential security more convenient and give homeowners greater awareness of what is happening around their property. That convenience works best when the technology itself is properly protected.
Strong passwords, multifactor authentication, software updates, secure Wi-Fi, and regular access reviews can all help strengthen your connected home.
Cultris Security Systems can help you build a residential security system that combines smart technology with professional security solutions. From security cameras and intrusion detection to smart home features and professional monitoring, we can help you choose a system designed around your home and family’s needs. Call 281-506-8466 or reach us online at www.cultrissecurity.com to learn more.
