With the rapid development of technology, the application of smart devices has expanded to almost every aspect of our daily lives. These connected devices, collectively known as the Internet of Things (IoT), can help us with everything from brewing a cup of morning coffee to controlling the temperature and monitoring home security systems, and the rapid adoption of cloud-based devices is expected to increase dramatically in the coming years. Statista estimates that by 2025, IoT devices will be integrated into more than 478 million homes.
Unfortunately, this increased connectivity comes with a critical caveat. If your network isn't properly protected, hackers can access cloud data generated by IoT-based devices and potentially gain malicious control over them. Protecting your smart home from cybercriminals is crucial to preventing data breaches and other security risks that threaten your home and privacy. With that in mind, let's look at the vulnerabilities of IoT devices and how to improve your home's cloud security.
Potential risks of connected devices
According to IoT World Today, the number of IoT cyberattacks more than doubled last year alone. As manufacturers race to release new products, they often neglect security patches and features that can leave your home and data vulnerable. In some of the worst-case scenarios, hackers could:
▲ Monitor your home's thermostat and smart lighting to determine when you leave.
▲ Hacking into home security systems and computer cameras to broadcast live
▲ Stealing passwords and confidential information such as bank accounts
▲Infiltrate your network and launch ransomware attacks
▲Utilizing the device's computing power for denial-of-service attacks, cryptocurrency mining, or password cracking
Improving IoT security in smart homes
Considering all these security concerns, installing connected devices in your home may seem daunting. Fortunately, there are some simple steps you can take to protect your home from cybersecurity threats:
Protect your router
Protecting your smart home starts with your router. Ensure your router has the latest security patches installed and change default settings such as name and password.
Create a guest network
Segmented networking provides Wi-Fi access to guest devices without granting them access to your home's main network. You can also use this secondary network for your IoT devices, so that if a device is compromised, hackers can only access the guest Wi-Fi network, reducing the risk of the main network being compromised.
Increase password strength
Passwords composed of random combinations of letters, numbers, and symbols are harder to crack than passwords using phrases or specific dates. Avoid using short passwords (less than 15 characters) and be sure to change them regularly.
Use multi-factor authentication
Modern IoT devices typically offer two-factor or multi-factor authentication, which usually requires sending a second login code via email or SMS. Manufacturers are also implementing biometric technologies, such as fingerprint scanners, to add another layer of security to your IoT devices. These measures require multi-factor authentication to ensure you are the only person who can access your data and devices.
Avoid using public Wi-Fi
While free Wi-Fi in places like coffee shops or hotels can be convenient, they are often vulnerable to security breaches. If you're using public Wi-Fi, it's best to use a Virtual Private Network (VPN) to secure your connection. A VPN provides a private, encrypted gateway to the internet, preventing potential hackers from accessing your IoT devices and sensitive data.
