Tuesday, February 7, 2017
The wireless thermostat, baby monitor, door lock, and smart speakers such as Alexa are very helpful, but also need to be properly protected. A New York Times article provides some helpful details. The highlights of the article are:
Research the products and privacy policies. For example, smart TV maker Vizio kept detailed records of customer viewing habits which it shared with advertisers.
Find major brands that support security updates. Double check to make sure you are getting the security updates.
Strengthen your Wi-Fi Security with better passwords and hidden SSID name.
Setup dual wireless networks that separate you computer and mobile device network from your home devices.
Currently known losses (of more than $1000) are limited to about 10% of homes which have such devices. It’s likely that attacks will increase significantly for those who do not take some basic precautions. Taking a few simple steps can protect your home, while still enabling you to enjoy the convenience of smart devices.