Phones were once the smartest devices you owned. Now, there are light bulbs, thermostats and digital assistants you can access remotely.
There is a lot of appeal in transitioning to a smart home. But do the benefits outweigh the risks?
App privileges can leave your home vulnerable
The house’s smart devices are accessed through an app or multiple apps. For these apps to work your phone and other devices, they need to be given the privileges to do so.
Recall when you use download a new app to your phone; it has to ask for permission to use the camera or see your location. In many cases, smart home apps are granted more permissions than needed, and face being hacked and exploited by the wrong person.
Messaging is not always secure
Smart home apps communicate with the physical smart devices by messaging. These messages contain data that can be used against you. For example, it could reveal the PIN code to your system, rendering everything vulnerable. It could also show if there is anyone in the home or display patterns that criminals can use to target your house. In some cases, your network ID can be stolen and used for online criminal activity.
IP cameras are particularly vulnerable
IP cameras are easy manipulated and commonly targeted. Many of these security cameras just sit online waiting to be discovered without any preventative measures in place.
The images taken can be used for a multitude of reasons, from burglary to blackmail. As such, any homeowner considering them should research the most secure models.
Of course, there are still many benefits of having a smart home, and with the right security protocols, the risks can be significantly minimized.
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