The Age of the Internet of Things
We are living in the age of “The Internet Of Things”, an age where an ever-expanding list of our devices collect and exchange vast amounts of data. Unfortunately, this data is often our own data whether willingly or unwillingly. This data is shared to the cloud where it is classified, analyzed, and shared.
Wireless Cameras survey our homes against intrusion. Smart TV’s know our favorite channels and shows. Wearable devices count our steps and track our movements, while baby monitors keep us informed to our most precious family members. Additionally, many more Internet of Things connected appliances keep a constant vigil into our routines and personal tastes.
The promise of Internet of Things is enthralling, especially when presented by advertisement as a must-have for your dream house. Therefore, it is no surprise that some estimates place no less than 40 Billion household Internet of Things devices in use worldwide by 2020.
Hackers also know the Internet of Things numbers are rising. Additionally, they are aware that most people will just trust the most convenient and basic cyber protection for their homes. We feel safeguarding our houses is as easy as installing a good fence and a quality lock. However, a cyber attack is a whole different kind of intrusion.
Keeping our homes safe from a full frontal deliberate cyber attack is quite a handful in the Internet of Things age. However, we can use three basic procedures to bring a minimally acceptable level of protection.
Passwords
- There is a reason why 123456, Password and 123456789 are one of the most popular password choices. These passwords are easy to enter and to remember. However, hackers know they are the easiest form of entry to our networks. Changing the default usernames and passwords is a great place to start and the instructions to do so are easy to follow.
Don’t fear using a mix of capital letters, number,s and symbols in your passwords. Additionally, to keep track, use a password manager. These managers are very handy and quite economical for any budget. These managers also help you keep track of all your different Internet of Things devices, allowing you to use different passwords for each device.
Device Firmware
- There is a reason why your phone apps and computer are sending you warnings to update their firmware. Viruses and malware change and this is how we vaccinate our systems against unwanted infections.
Either set a schedule to upgrade the firmware every 4-6 weeks or let the device automatically connect on its own.
Read The Manuals
- Knowing your devices is another way to protect them from interference. Some devices have additional measures of security that need your permissions to work. Know all your alternatives before letting your device jump head-on into the internet.
In the end, remember that being informed and knowing your devices are always your first line of defense regarding unwanted cyber intrusions.
Tags: Cybersecurity, Data, Firmware, Internet of Things, IoT, IoT Devices, Password, Passwords, Smart Home, Virus
