Keep Your Smarthome System From Being Hacked

One of the most significant concerns consumers have about smarthome technology is the security of the wifi networks. Without the proper precautions in place, hackers can infiltrate your home network and gain access to confidential information and passwords. Hiring a professional home automation company to select and install your automated components will help keep your smarthome system from being hacked.

Tips for keeping your home automation network secure:

Use strong passwords. We’re long past the days when people used “1234” for their password, however, many people continue to use passwords that can easily be hacked. For example, refrain from using your name, birth date, telephone number, or other public information about yourself or your family members in your password. Hackers use software programs filled with dictionary words and number combinations, so always use a combination of words, numbers, and symbols for the best protection.
Don’t keep default passwords. If devices come with a default password for setup, change them as soon as possible. Hackers know what the default passwords are and will try those first to infiltrate your network.
Change your password if you have a security breach. If you have or suspect your network has been breached, change your password immediately! It’s also a good idea to change your password if you’ve shared it with any contractors, friends, or family members.
Select wifi devices with adequate security. Look for smart devices with security features like AES 128-bit encryption, transport layer security, HTTPS access, and encryption. Recognized brands will usually have more security features than cheaper, copy-cat devices. If a device doesn’t include information about its security features, it probably doesn’t have any.
Use a strong encryption system within your router. Speaking of high-level encryption, use a strong system like WPA2 when you set up your Wi-Fi network access.
Have a second wifi network for guests. Don’t give friends, family, or neighbors the password to your primary wifi network. Instead, set up a second network for game playing, streaming, or any other recreational uses your guests may need.
Update your systems regularly. All software manufacturers release updates that often contain new security features. Make sure all of your technology systems are updated regularly to ensure you’re running the most secure versions of the software.
Use two-step authentication when provided. If a software system offers two-step authentication, use it. This will require someone to have a password and a code sent to a secure phone or email account in order to access the administrative features of a system.
Avoid using public wifi to manage your devices. Don’t use the free wifi at a coffee shop, for example, to check your home thermostat. Public wifi networks are not secure and a hacker can use them to eavesdrop on your transmission and obtain your login and password credentials.
Buy devices from reputable dealers. Stick to brands you know are sold at reputable retailers. Avoid buying cheap imitation products promoted on social media or sold on large online shopping websites. Low-cost products from unknown manufacturers usually come with lackluster quality, short lifespans, and little to no security features.

If that sounds confusing, make it simple and call Accurate Electronic Interiors instead.

Our team can handle all the design, selection, and installation details for your secure smarthome system. We’ll make sure everything is set up correctly to keep your smarthome system from being hacked. If you want to design the perfect home theater experience for your friends and family, talk with our professionals at Accurate Electronic Interiors. Our teams install quality electronic systems that seamlessly automate your home theater, window coverings, lighting, outlets, surveillance system, and more. Visit our showroom or give us a call to learn more about how we can make your life easier.