Technology may seem to be at its mature stage, but the truth is, we are only beginning. There are still many wonders that it can bring into our life, and there are more things to learn about it.
For now, we have used technology to our comforts, and it’s not only about the use of smartphones or laptops, or electric cars, but the power to connect all devices.
The Internet of Things (IoT) has brought all of our smart devices together. We can now control our TV, speaker, thermostat, refrigerator, and even smartwatches.
It’s a good thing to have all the things connected because it becomes convenient. But despite its convenience, IoT does have one major problem and that its vulnerable to threats.
When devices are connected, it’s easy for cybercriminals to hack into any system they want, and thus making IoT an insecure technology.
But despite its vulnerability, you can still secure your IoT devices. There are simple steps you can follow to make sure no one gets to steal your data.
DON’T CONNECT ON THE INTERNET
IoT devices are often connected online because most of them require the internet to function. But, you can choose not to connect your device if you want. There are features in your device that you can use without the internet. Discover these features before you decide to connect it online.
SECURE WITH A STRONG PASSWORD
If you don’t want your details being seen elsewhere on the internet, make sure to secure all your devices. Use a strong password that would be difficult for cybercriminals or anyone to guess.
Features of a strong password:
- Combination of upper and lower case
- Numbers
- Symbols
- Long passwords
Don’t use passwords that are easy to guess like the name of your pet, your favorite teacher, or the name of your spouse. These are passwords that are easy to decipher. Remember to also change your password when you are hacked or once a year. Don’t use the same password on all your devices. Make it a habit to use different passwords on each device, and use a password manager if you can’t remember them.
UPDATE YOUR DEVICE
If there are any available updates on your devices, it is crucial to install these updates. It will secure your device’s apps or system. Hackers can use outdated apps or software as their gateway to enter a device. Therefore, make it a habit to update your software or system.
ENCRYPT YOUR WI-FI
Similar to your IoT devices, you need to use a strong password for your Wi-Fi connection. Follow the tips on how to create a strong password above. Also, adding security to your Wi-Fi will ensure the safety of your devices.
USE ANOTHER NETWORK
To ensure full protection, you can separate a network for your devices, and another connection for your visitors and family. Setting a secondary network will ensure the security of your data. No intruders can steal your information when you create a separate connection for your personal device and others.
USE TWO-FACTOR AUTHENTICATION
Like your online accounts, your IoT devices are also equipped with two-factor authentication. This step will strengthen the security of your devices.
When logging into an account equipped with two-factor authentication, you’ll not only need a password to enter your account. But it will also require a code sent to you via SMS or email. Therefore, with two-factor authentication, you’ll be able to secure your account, and you’ll know if someone is trying to hack your account.
DON’T ACCESS WITH A PUBLIC WI-FI
It is tempting to access your IoT devices with public Wi-Fi, but as much as possible, you shouldn’t do it. However, if you want to access your accounts using public Wi-Fi, you can use a VPN to secure your data.
CHANGE OLD DEVICES
If you think that your IoT devices have already reached its limit, it’s time to upgrade it to a newer model. Using old devices that are not able to be updated will put you at risk from hackers.
DISABLE THE UNIVERSAL PLUG & PLAY FEATURE
Most IoT devices have the Universal Plug & Play (UPnP) feature. It allows each device to locate one another without the need to configure individually. It can also connect to other networks. Therefore, to avoid automatically connecting to a public Wi-Fi or other networks, make sure to disable this feature.
IoT devices have changed the way we live. It simplifies things and also makes it convenient. But despite all of this, IoT devices are similar to other technologies, that they are vulnerable to threat. Although, we can protect ourselves from cyberattacks by practicing the tips mentioned earlier.
AUTHOR BIO
JOHN OCAMPOS
John Ocampos is an Opera Singer by profession and a member of the Philippine Tenors. Ever since, Digital Marketing has always been his forte. He is the Founder of SEO-Guru, and the Managing Director of Tech Hacker. John is also the Strategic SEO and Influencer Marketing Manager of Softvire Australia – the leading software eCommerce company in Australia.
