Secure your Internet and Wi-Fi
I have referred to this in previous articles. Now there are smart speakers with Alexa, Siri, and Google built in. I thought I’d give you some suggestions on how you can protect and insure yourself.
It is important to recognize that all your smart devices must go through some type of router before accessing your device. The router will allow you to connect via a fixed cable or Wi-Fi. The hard wire would be faster and safer; however, Wi-Fi is easier and found on more devices. In either case, make sure your router has a strong password that you have created. Make sure you have the highest level of security for your Wi-Fi, such as WPA / WPA2. Also, if your router is more than 5 years old, you should consider replacing it with a new, modern router. This will ensure that you are using the latest hardware and software security.
Smart speakers are popping up in homes everywhere, they were the best sellers on Amazon this past Christmas season. They are good at playing your favorite music and improving all the time to follow your orders. They can control your alarm system and lock and unlock your front door. Before allowing Alexa, Siri, or Google to unlock your front door, ask yourself how secure they are. Can they tell your voice from the voice of a stranger? What if you leave your house and a stranger comes to your front door and says “Unlock the door”, open it? Speech recognition improves every day, so test your device before relying on it.
Are Smart TVs Tracking What You Watch? The answer is yes, they can. I have written another article that explains how they do it and more importantly how you can stop it.
Do you have cameras inside your house? Many of us do. Ask yourself if they are safe and how can I prevent some smart actor from getting hold of them. That could put you in a very embarrassing situation.
It is important to carefully research each new smart device you buy to determine how it works and what data it collects about you. Then secure that device within your home network. If you are unsure about a particular device, disconnect it from your home network. Remember, most of the devices you have in your home have to go through your router – secure it!