Kaspersky Shares Tips to Keep Your Smart Home Devices Safe
As smart homes continue to grow in popularity, with projections indicating that over 33% of households globally will adopt smart home systems by 2028, the need for robust cybersecurity is more critical than ever. Devices such as voice assistants, kitchen robots, smart lights, and connected appliances are redefining modern living—but they also introduce potential risks. In response, cybersecurity leader Kaspersky has outlined key recommendations to help users protect their smart homes from digital threats.
What Makes a Home “Smart”?
Smart home systems are designed to create an interconnected environment, enabling seamless communication between devices and users. These systems typically feature a central hub or controller that acts as the brain of the setup. From fridges and vacuum cleaners to security cameras and thermostats, smart devices connect to the internet and to each other to provide a personalized, automated living experience.
Users can interact with their smart homes through:
Mobile apps for remote control, scheduling, and notifications
Voice assistants for hands-free operation
Web portals for configuration and monitoring
The convenience is undeniable—devices can turn on lights at sunset, adjust temperatures upon arrival, or even identify food on a TV show and suggest recipes using the contents of your fridge.
The Security Trade-Off
Despite their benefits, smart homes are only as secure as their internet connections. Devices connected via Wi-Fi and tied to user accounts are susceptible to hacking. In past incidents, attackers have exploited vulnerabilities in robot vacuum cleaners to access private spaces, while internet-connected beds and mattresses have also been identified as potential risks.
Even though such attacks remain relatively rare, Kaspersky emphasizes the importance of proactive security measures to ensure smart devices enhance comfort without compromising safety.
Kaspersky’s Smart Home Security Tips
1. Secure Your Wi-Fi Network
Replace default router passwords with strong, unique ones to prevent unauthorized access.
2. Monitor Your Network Activity
Use tools such as Kaspersky Wi-Fi Security Check to scan for weak security settings and Smart Home Monitor to track new devices joining your network.
3. Watch for Unusual Behavior
If a device starts behaving oddly, change your account password and check your network traffic for anomalies.
4. Review and Limit Device Settings
Disable features like microphones and cameras when not in use to reduce exposure to unnecessary risks.
5. Be Selective with New Devices
While it may be tempting to connect every new gadget, each one increases your digital footprint. Choose devices from reputable manufacturers with a proven commitment to security.