From smart thermostats and video doorbells to voice assistants and security cameras, smart home devices make life more convenient. But just like any connected technology, they can also create opportunities for cybercriminals if not properly secured.
As you head into summer vacation, take a few moments to secure your smart devices and keep your home and data safe while you’re away.
Why It Matters
Smart home devices connect to your Wi-Fi network and collect data about your daily life. If they’re not protected, attackers could:
- Peek through your smart cameras
- Unlock smart doors
- Hijack devices to steal personal info or launch larger attacks
Don’t let an online intruder ruin your peace of mind.
5 Steps to Protect Your Smart Home
- Use Strong, Unique Passwords
- Replace default passwords with strong, unique ones for each device and account.
- Use a passphrase or a password manager to keep things simple and secure.
- Keep Software and Firmware Updated
- Check for updates regularly—or enable automatic updates if available.
- Updates fix known vulnerabilities and keep your devices secure from new threats.
- Enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)
- Turn on MFA for your device accounts whenever possible.
- This adds an extra layer of protection, even if your password is stolen.
- Secure Your Home Wi-Fi
- Use a strong Wi-Fi password and WPA3 encryption (or WPA2 if WPA3 isn’t available).
- Create a guest network for smart home devices to keep them separate from your personal devices like phones or laptops.
- Explore and enable the security options of home Wi-Fi appliance and keep its software up-to-date.
- Going on Vacation? Lock Down Remote Access
- Turn off remote access on smart devices you won’t need while you’re away. Check the device manufacturer’s website for specific instructions.
- Review your devices’ activity logs before and after your trip to spot any unusual activity.
Bonus Tips
- Rename devices so hackers can’t guess what they are (e.g., avoid names like “FrontDoorCam”).
- Turn off unused features like voice control or geolocation if you’re not using them.
- Check your app permissions and device settings regularly to make sure you’re only sharing what’s necessary.
Stay Smart, Stay Secure
Your home might be smart—but it’s only as secure as the steps you take to protect it. With a few easy precautions, you can enjoy your summer worry-free, knowing your digital front door is just as locked as the real one.
Need help or want to learn more? Visit Secure Our World | CISA , Secure Your Home – National Cybersecurity Alliance, Securing Your Internet-Connected Devices at Home | Consumer Advice for additional information on this topic.
Learn more about Oakland County’s Information Security Office here. Visit their Citizen Cyber Training portal for online education and online cybersecurity resources to help understand risks and be better prepared for a more secure online experience.
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