When you consider the items in your business or home that might make you vulnerable to a cyber security threat, your list is likely to include computers, laptops, tablets and smartphones.
However, you could also be at risk through the “Internet of Things”.
The Internet of Things (IoT) refers to the billions of physical devices around the world that are now connected to the internet, all collecting and sharing data. Many of these are domestic devices and some of them may be items you are giving or receiving at Christmas.
Examples of IoT devices include:
- Digital assistants such as Amazon Alexa, Google Home, and Apple Home Pod
- Smart TVs
- Interactive children’s toys
- Remote central heating controls
- CCTV cameras
- Interactive doorbells
It is important to remember that via the Internet, these devices can be a target for hackers, putting your data and privacy at risk.
How to protect your IoT environment:
- Take your time when setting it up for the first time, be sure of your privacy settings, follow the manufacturer instructions.
- Consider the benefits of individual accounts for each piece of equipment, versus using a ‘single sign-on’ using services like Google and Facebook.
- If the item comes with a default password, change this to something more secure (check out our blog about passwords)
- If the device or app offers two-factor authentication (2FA), turn it on (click here to read our blog on 2FA & MFA)
- Make sure that any software updates that the manufacturer releases to improve security, are applied. Switch on the option to install automatic updates if available, and install any manual updates when prompted.
- Perform a factory reset if you think the device may have been compromised, or if you are going to sell the item or give it away.
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