How vulnerable are smart home devices to hacking?

Smart home devices have become an important part of modern life. However, using these devices also carries some risks related to cybersecurity.

If not well secured, smart home devices can be easily hacked, threatening the privacy and safety of your family. Here are some errors that make smart home devices easy to hack, don't ignore them.

How easy are smart home devices to 'hack'? (Photo: Shutterstock)

Weak password

Weak passwords are one of the most common mistakes that make smart home devices vulnerable to attack. Easy-to-guess passwords, such as usernames or birthdays, are easy for hackers to guess. You should also change your passwords periodically and not use the same password for multiple devices. You should also use strong passwords, passwords should contain special characters.

Old devices do not get software updates

Manufacturers often provide patches and software updates to fix security holes in their devices. If you don’t update your software, hackers can find these holes and exploit them. To stay safe, check and update the software on all your smart home devices according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Unsecure connection

Connecting your smart home devices to the Internet allows you to control them remotely. However, if the connection is not secure, hackers can break into your home network and take control of your devices. To stay safe, use a Wi-Fi network secured with WPA2 or WPA3. Make sure you use a strong network password and don't make your Wi-Fi network public.

Untrustworthy software and fake apps

Downloading software from untrusted sources or using fake apps can lead to your smart home devices being hacked. Always download software from official sources and only install apps from verified app stores.

Vulnerability in the connection protocol

Some smart home devices use insecure communication protocols like Bluetooth or Zigbee. These vulnerabilities can allow bad actors to break into your home network and control connected devices.

Manufacturer's vulnerability

Manufacturer errors and negligence are also reasons for hackers to be able to penetrate smart home devices. Basic manufacturer errors such as setting the customer's password in a plain form, making the password easy to hack. Without proper protection measures, hackers can access your unlock account to penetrate your smart home devices.

Unreliable supplier

Many smart home devices are manufactured by unreliable suppliers and are floating around the market. These smart home devices are easily hacked and can be used to steal information or remotely control the devices without our knowledge.

To avoid situations where smart home devices are hacked by bad guys, users can refer to some other ways to secure smart homes such as: Install additional password change confirmation via phone, increase password layer to secure information, use devices from reputable suppliers.

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