Smart homes are getting smarter and smarter. Unfortunately, this does not mean that thugs and Hackers have become any dumber. With the ability to control everything on the web via smartphones, such as the thermostat, vacuum cleaner, or dishwasher, there’s an actual major security risk in the home.

Here we will go through several scenarios you certainly have not thought about that could be a security threat. In addition, we will list everything you need to do to ensure that hackers do not steal your information.

1.   Update passwords and use two-factor authentication on the web

Ensure that important email addresses and accounts in online stores or services are regularly updated and unique. This makes it harder for hackers to identify the password you are using. A hacker can track all the passwords used on your PC; therefore, regular updates can make the job a little more difficult for them. In addition, you must use two-factor authentication where you can, so you must verify the device you are using to log in.

2.    Divide the network in the house

Did you know that your coffee maker can leak sensitive data if it is connected to the same Network as PCs and mobiles? Most hackers will try to connect through loT devices you have in your household. This can be a refrigerator, washing machine, calling system, or another type of device you may have connected to Alexa. Make sure these do not run on the same network as devices where you store any personal data, such as computers, smartphones, and tablets. The reason is that loT device are much easier to hack. This can be a major security threat if you have all the smart solutions on the same network in your home. Most modern routers allow you to create so-called “guest networks,” which you can let visitors use when they stop by. Such networks work just fine with loT systems you have connected to your home.

3.   Use a VPN service

When you connect to the network in the household, everything you do online can be tracked through your IP address. This can make it easy for hackers to find out where you have accounts online and find your passwords. A VPN will hide your tracks online by connecting you to another IP address in your home city or other countries. This confuses the information hackers get and can save you from attacks. Most VPN services have free downloads, so you can test the system for free before you decide.

4.   Stick to well-known brands

If you think it sounds challenging to divide the household network into different devices, it is important to think about the quality of what you buy. If you are going to buy important systems, such as call systems and door lock systems, such things should not be traded on Alibaba or other places where you can get cheap products that do not ensure the security of the network. As a rule, brands are more concerned about their reputation, adding more security layers to make it difficult to hack the devices. Nevertheless, pretty much anything can be hacked, so you need to ensure that the network is divided and well secured.

5.   Secure your network

Even if you have unique passwords for all the services you use and use the best VPN service online, it is still important to have a “wall” that blocks intrusion on the network. One of the best security tips here, which has been around for many years, is firewalls. This will help you monitor all devices that are vulnerable in the home and protect all loT devices on the same network.