Technology changes every day. New electronic devices pop up in our news feed daily. Most of us have several wireless devices in our homes, including our cellphones and home security systems. With the wireless world becoming the new normal, we realize that there is a need for new security measures as well. All of us have seen reports of baby monitors or security cameras that got hacked. No one wants to experience that type of invasion of privacy. What are some steps you can take to avoid this happening to you? Here are a few tips to protect your home security from the risk of hacking.

How Hackers Gain Access

No matter how many times we get reminded, there are those that reuse that same password for several accounts. A report states that this is about 52% of us. The reason it is so common is that it is easier on our memory. However, the danger occurs when one of these companies with our account suffers a data breach. Now, your reused password for your wireless device or other electronic is on the world wide web for the cybercriminal to use. 

Another way your wireless devices become vulnerable is when there is access to your network by getting close enough to your Wi-Fi network range to trick it into thinking they are a trusted source. Or, you might sign into a trusted-looking link and give them access. Once into the network, control is gained over your connected devices. 

What Devices Are Vulnerable to Attack?

Unfortunately, just about anything with the word “Smart” in front of it, along with home security cameras and monitors, or other devices connected to the internet are targets. Once your Wi-Fi or internet has been breached, anything you have connected to it becomes vulnerable. That is if you haven’t taken precautions to secure them. When you do hear of a camera or other devices getting hacked, many times it is due to not implementing the full security protocol. 

The scary part is that when someone gains access to your smart home devices, such as a garage door opener, your routine is now exposed. A hacker sees when you leave the house and when you usually come home. Your virtual assistant, home alarm systems, smart thermostat, plus more have the potential of being hacked if you do not secure them.

What to Do to Keep Your Home Network Private

Before you make a purchase of your wireless device, do your research.  Be sure that it has encryption and security measures in place. If that is verified, follow through and use it. Upon bringing a device home and setting it up, the first thing to do is to change the user name and password. Leaving the default sign-in is what every cybercriminal is counting on. Many accounts now want you to use two-factor authentication. Yes, it is tedious and more to remember, but enabling this is like a second layer of protection in the case that someone breaks through the first. Also, when signing up for an account read all the small print when you grant permissions. 

Use different strong passwords routinely changed out, encrypted security, enabled firewalls, two-factor authentication, and keep your firmware updated. All of this protects your devices in the home. Keep in mind that it is not just your PC, cameras, or virtual assistant that can get hacked. Don’t let the quiet devices get forgotten, such as your printer or DVR. It is also highly recommended to not remotely access your cameras or home security system using a public Wi-Fi network. These unsecured sources are used by hackers to gather information. 

Don’t Get Overly Worried

Just because it is possible to hack into your home security system or other Wi-Fi devices in the home, does not mean it is going to happen. When you implement the many security protocols listed above, there is a very slim chance that anyone is going to be able to access your private data or access your alarm systems and devices. Technology makes our life easier and safer. Don’t let a fear of cybercrime stop you. Take advantage of the positive aspect of protecting your family with home security. Call us at Fort Knox Home Security if you have more questions concerning any risk factors with your Wi-Fi and home network working with your home security. We are more than happy to assist you. Our goal is to get you set up safely in order to protect those at home.