Strong passwords for your smart devices
One of common reason for cybersecurity breaches is not giving our devices strong enough passwords.
A strong password is very important for security of your home devices. Password should not relate to words and numbers that relate to your life in any way like birthdays, pet’s names, and your hometown when it comes to setting passwords. The best passwords are made from completely random numbers, letters, and symbols. Randomization makes passwords nearly impossible to guess with brute force. And you can improve your security even more by changing your passwords regularly.
Encrypt your home network with a VPN
A VPN is a tool that encrypts your internet activity. People think
VPN is a tool that protects us while we travel or use public Wi-Fi. But a VPN can do a lot more.
When you use a VPN enabled router, everything using your network including your computer, home security system, smartphone, and voice assistant receives that same level of internet encryption. This makes it much harder for hackers to steal your personal information or take control of devices through connection exploits.
Check your network for unusual activity
Many modern routers, smart security systems, and voice assistants can provide information about your network using the device’s corresponding app. Google devices, for example, use the Google Home app to show your recent activity on the network. Log in to these apps regularly to look for devices or activities you don’t recognize.
If you spot unusual activity, change your password. A hacked password is the most likely way an unwanted third party was able to join your network. By changing the password, you’ll boot unwanted parties and devices from your network.
Use two-factor authentication
When a new person tries to connect with your router or smart device, you can use two-factor authentication to ensure you know and trust the person requesting access.
We all recognize two-factor authentication (also known as multi-factor authentication, MFA) when it comes to our most important systems. It’s the process of using one verified method of contact (like an email or phone number) to confirm your request for access to protected information. You can set up a 2FA system in your smart home, requiring all new users or devices on your network to go through a multi-factor authentication process.
This is an easy way to passively block unwanted parties and devices from accessing your smart home network.
