Your Smart Appliances Are a Security Risk — Here's What to Do
Smart TVs, fridges, and doorbells can be entry points for attackers. Securing your IoT devices is simpler than you think.
Why Smart Devices Are Vulnerable
Smart home devices typically run stripped-down operating systems that rarely receive security updates. Unlike your phone or laptop, your smart fridge won't remind you to install a patch.
Researchers have found that the average smart home has 21 connected devices, many of which have never been updated since they were purchased.
The Most Vulnerable Devices
How to Secure Your Smart Home
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Create a Guest Network for IoT
Put all smart devices on a separate Wi-Fi network isolated from your phone and laptop. Most modern routers support this out of the box.
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Change Default Passwords Immediately
The default admin credentials for most IoT devices are publicly documented. Change them on day one.
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Enable Automatic Updates
Check the settings on every device and turn on automatic firmware updates wherever available.
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Use a VPN on Your Router
A router-level VPN encrypts all traffic from every device on your network, including devices that can't run a VPN themselves.
Bottom Line
Smart home security is mostly about basic hygiene: unique passwords, a dedicated network, and keeping firmware up to date.
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