How many smart devices do you own?
Smart devices are any devices that connect to the internet, gather information and exchange data with other devices. Most smart devices connect to the internet using your home Wi-Fi network.
Victorians are increasingly using smart devices. Some popular ones include smart watches and TVs, robot vacuums, smart speakers, home security systems, and baby monitors.
Many smart devices aren’t designed with security in mind. That means that they are at risk of being accessed by cybercriminals via the internet.
If they manage to gain access, cybercriminals may steal your personal information, including usernames, passwords, financial information and account details stored on your smart device. They could also gain control of your smart device to scare or manipulate you. They may even use your smart device to go on to access your home Wi-Fi network and the other devices connected to it.
That’s why it’s critical to learn how to use the smart devices in your home securely. Keep reading to learn how.
Before buying a smart device
Different smart devices come with different security features. That’s why it’s vital to research what options are available before committing to one.
Start by comparing the security features on similar smart devices. The following questions may help you weigh up your options:
- Is the device made by a reputable company, and sold by a reputable store?
- Is it possible to change the default password?
- Does the manufacturer regularly update the device’s software?
- What personal data will the device collect, and who will the data be shared with?
It may also be helpful to read product reviews. Most popular smart devices are reviewed by security experts, who highlight any security issues they find.
User-generated reviews are useful to look at too. They may identify security issues the experts have missed.
News stories are another source of information to consider. Search online to see if there are any news stories about the device’s security.
If a device’s security seems weak, strongly consider not buying it. Weak security makes a device more vulnerable to attack. If a cybercriminal accesses your smart device, they could steal your personal information and gain control of your smart device, or go on to access your home Wi-Fi network and the other devices connected to it.
Tips to secure your smart devices
Once you’ve chosen your smart device, it’s important to know how to secure it. Follow the tips below to get started:
Getting rid of a smart device? Don’t put your personal data at risk
Always remove your personal information and data from any smart device you plan to sell, replace, give away, or discard.
Ways to do this include:
Get help
If you’ve experienced an online security issue, your first step is to contact the service provider.
If your device, account or network has been accessed by someone else without your permission:
- change your passwords immediately for any accounts you believe may have been accessed.
- turn on multi-factor authentication (MFA) for your accounts to help prevent future attacks.
If you think personal or financial details might have been exposed:
- contact your bank: Contact your bank or financial institution immediately. Explain the situation and request extra protections to be placed on your accounts.
- protect your identity: If you think someone may have accessed or stolen your identity or identity documents, contact IDCARE. This is a not-for-profit organisation that provides support if your identity information has been compromised or misused.
- report it: You can report cybercrime securely to ReportCyber. You can also call them 24/7 on 1300 292 371. Your report will be referred directly to the relevant law enforcement agency.
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