Don’t Get Caught Off Guard: Hackers Are After Smart Home Devices

The way we interact with our homes has changed after the advent of smart home devices. From security cameras to smart thermostats, these connected devices offer automation and convenience, letting you live a futuristic experience. However, as homes get smarter and more connected, they also get more vulnerable to cyber threats. Hackers can exploit smart home devices, access sensitive personal data, and harm security systems. 

This blog explores cybersecurity risks and the types of smart home devices hackers target. We’re also providing insight about how you, as a homeowner, can protect your digital space from cyber attacks. 

The Cybersecurity Risks of a Smart Home

1. Smart Home Technology’s Rise

Over the past decade, smart home tech has advanced rapidly. It has reshaped homes with devices that connect to the internet, offering advanced functionality and remote control. The Internet of Things (IoT) has played an important part in this shift, boosting regular devices like kitchen appliances to door locks. The trend today is even shifting towards more eco-friendly IoT options. 

2. The Concern of Cybersecurity for Smart Homes

Connectivity comes at the cost of safety. Every device that’s connected contains a possible entry point for malicious attackers. They can put the user’s data at risk, along with their privacy and physical safety. Unlike conventional computing devices, several smart home devices don’t have strong security measures. This makes them attractive targets for cyber attackers. 

Here are the major risks involved with smart home devices hackers target:

• Data breaches: Personal data, such as behavioral patterns, schedules, and addresses, can be leaked through unprotected devices.
• Device hijacking: Hackers can take control of devices to spy on users. They can also use devices as part of a botnet or manipulate home systems.
• Network compromise: Vulnerable smart devices can become the entry point for hackers. They can use one infected device to infiltrate all the other devices on the home network.

Types of Smart Home Device Threats

1. Device Vulnerabilities 

Certain types of smart home devices hackers target are naturally susceptible to security vulnerabilities. This happens because manufacturers often prioritize convenience and functionality over security. 

• No security standard: Manufacturers of smart home devices generally don’t have standardized security protocols. This leads to insufficient and inconsistent security measures. No standardization means safety strategies to implement for smart home devices become challenging. There are too many devices from too many vendors and brands. 
• Insecure software and firmware: Several devices function with insecure or outdated software and firmware. This leaves them open to cyber attacks. When devices lack automated update mechanisms, users end up unknowingly operating with insecure and obsolete versions. 

2. Risks of Data Privacy

Smart home devices gather massive amounts of personal information, from activity logs to voice recordings. This information is valuable to hackers. But it can also be sold to third parties by manufacturers for marketing purposes. The data these devices collect can include voice recordings by Google Home or Alexa, video feeds from security cameras, and fitness and health data. 

3. Concerns of Network Security

Smart home devices usually connect through Wi-Fi. A device can serve as an entry point for the whole home network if hacked. This can compromise all the devices. 

Major network threats include:

• Unsound Wi-Fi security: Most homeowners use outdated security protocols or weak passwords. And these become the smart home devices hackers target.
• Default settings: Users usually don’t change default passwords and usernames, which attackers take advantage of. 

4. Physical Risks

Smart home devices like thermostats, locks, or cameras control physical systems. If they are compromised, it can pose a threat to physical concerns. For instance, if a smart lock gets hacked, it allows unauthorized entry to a home. A hacked thermostat could cause unsafe temperatures. 

Common Smart Home Devices Cyberattacks

1. Botnet Attacks

Hackers form botnets by exploiting smart devices. A botnet is a network of infected devices that can be remotely controlled. This network can be used for massive cyber attacks like DDoS attacks, which overwhelm networks and interrupt internet services. 

2. Spying and Eavesdropping

Smart home devices hackers target, such as security cameras and voice assistants, can be hacked to spy on users. This results in a wide array of privacy violations, from collecting sensitive information to tracking user behavior.

3. Extortion and Ransomware

Ransomware is usually associated with conventional computers. However, smart devices are also vulnerable. Hackers can establish control over a device and threaten to ransom users to restore access. In smart homes, ransomware is a concerning probability. Attackers can possibly lock users out of important systems like home security. 

4. Hijacking Devices and Taking Over

Hackers take control of smart devices completely in most cases. They use them as a placeholder for malicious objectives or inside the home network. For example, they might manipulate smart lighting or a smart thermostat, undermining user safety.

Commonly Attacked IoT Consumer Devices

Based on recent studies, here are some of the most hacked smart home or IoT consumer devices.

• Security cameras: These devices are extremely vulnerable due to outdated firmware, public network exposure, and default passwords. 
• Smart meters: These are generally targeted to manipulate data about energy consumption. Attacks on smart meters can compromise the broader energy infrastructure. 
• Wearable healthcare gadgets: IoT healthcare gadgets are specifically vulnerable. A lot of sensitive and personal health data is at risk. 
• Smart cars: Vehicles are getting more connected, which is leaving them open for remote exploitation. 
• Home IoT: Smart home devices usually have extended connectivity with other home devices and weak security protocols. This makes them a common target for cyber criminals.

Ways to Secure Smart Home Devices

1. Secure Your Network

A protected network is the first line of defense against cyber threats. Here’s how you can secure the most vulnerable home devices through network safety:

• Use unique, strong passwords: Don’t use default passwords for your router and connected devices.
• Activate encryption: If supported, use WPA3 for the safest wireless encryption.
• Set up a guest network: Detach your IoT devices from the primary network. You can do this by creating a different guest network.

Need tips to properly and safely install security cameras? Read this blog to know more!

2. Update Regularly and Patch Often

Smart home devices usually arrive with default firmware, which might contain vulnerabilities. Update the firmware often to seal these security gaps.

• Track firmware updates: Several devices need manual updates, so keep an eye on the website or manufacturer’s app. 
• Activate automatic updates: Activate automatic updates if available to make sure the latest patches are installed. 

3. Use Strong Encryption and Authentication 

Encryption and authentication can considerably improve smart home device threats and preventions. 

• 2FA: Two-factor authentication can be enabled for accounts connected to smart devices. This adds another layer of protection. 
• Encrypt data: Many devices provide end-to-end encryption, particularly for doorbell and camera feeds. 

4. Adopt Practices Focused on Privacy 

Limit the collection and sharing of data by your devices to secure your privacy. This is one of the most valuable tips to protect smart home devices.  

• Disable inactive features: Turn off video feed or video recordings when they’re unnecessary. 
• Evaluate permissions for data sharing: Check device settings regularly to check what information is being shared and with whom.
• Utilize privacy settings: Several devices let users restrict data collection via privacy settings.

Industry Standards and the Global Regulatory Landscape

1. Government Regulations

Governments around the world in recent years have recognized the safety risks linked with IoT devices. They are introducing smart home device cybersecurity laws to keep consumers safe. For instance:

• The IoT Cybersecurity Improvement Act of 2020 in the USA mandates that IoT devices used by federal agencies must have minimum security requirements.
• The EU Cybersecurity Act aims to introduce cybersecurity standards across the European Union.

2. Industry Certifications and Standards 

To ensure every smart home device is made with sufficient security, industry standards are important. Certifications like the IoT Security Trust Mark or UL 2900 can guide consumers in selecting safe products.

3. Manufacturers and Their Role in Cybersecurity

When manufacturers design products, it’s their responsibility to keep cybersecurity as their priority when designing. This implies implementing features such as safe practices for data handling, automatic updates, and strong encryption. Additionally, manufacturers must be transparent about how information is gathered and shared. They need to assure users with total control over data. 

Smart home devices are convenient, and it’s an undeniable fact. However, it comes with considerable cybersecurity issues. Homes are getting more and more connected, and hackers are discovering new methods to exploit weaknesses in devices. They pose threats to data and privacy, physical or online. If you understand these risks and take proactive measures, you can take steps to secure your smart home devices.

Do you want to share your views on smart home device cybersecurity? Then write to us as Home Appliances Guest Posts! 

FAQs:

1. What device gets hacked the most?

The devices that get hacked the most are smartphones. 

2. What smart devices can be hacked?

Smart devices connected to the internet get hacked the most. These devices include thermostats, smart speakers, webcams, smart TVs, and even home appliances such as coffee makers and refrigerators.

3. Are smart homes hackable?

Yes, smart homes are hackable. Any device connected to the internet is vulnerable to cyber attacks if they aren’t secured properly.

4. What do hackers usually target?

Hackers usually target smart home devices such as security cameras, camera speakers, baby monitors, and Wi-Fi routers. 

Alex Barton

As a lifelong DIY enthusiast, Alex Barton is never afraid to go the extra mile to save a few bucks! From seamless interior decor hacks to effective DIY home renovation tips, he shares a myriad of his experiences for you to unleash your creativity.