Let's be real - we're living in an age where everything is "smart" and connected to the internet these days. Your fridge, your thermostat, and even your toothbrush probably have Wi-Fi capabilities now. It's wild!
While I'm all for the awesome conveniences that new tech brings, there's a serious risk here that most people simply aren't aware of. Keeping your smart home gadgets on the same network as your computer and other important devices is like leaving your front door wide open for hackers.
IoT Devices Are a Cyber Criminal's Dream Â
I know what you're thinking - "My smart fridge isn't a computer, so why would a hacker want to mess with that?" Well, here's the ugly truth: Internet of Things (IoT) gadgets often have terribly lax security.Â
Companies are so focused on cutting costs and making things user-friendly, that they don't put much thought into cyber protection for appliances that "aren't computers." But to hackers, those devices are perfect targets to sneak onto your network.
Once their malware is on your smart TV or security camera, they can pretty easily jump over to your laptop, phone, or any other devices connected to that same network. From there, they have free rein to steal your data, passwords, you name it. Yikes.
Use This Simple Router Trick for Seriously Better Security
Fortunately, there's an incredibly easy way to secure your more important devices and data from those IoT vulnerabilities. Most modern routers allow you to create multiple separate Wi-Fi networks with just a few clicks.
Here's what the cyber security pros recommend for top-notch home network protection:
- IoT Network - Dedicate one network solely for your smart home gadgets like TVs, thermostats, appliances, etc. If one gets compromised, the attack is contained.
- Personal Network - Set up a separate network for your family's phones, tablets, computers, and any other devices you use regularly.
- Work Network - If you ever need to handle business/work activities at home, create a third isolated network for those purposes.
By using three distinct networks, you create protective bubbles around your most sensitive data and devices. So if (when) one of those IoT gadgets gets hacked, the attack stops there. Your other networks, passwords, and important info stay secure. Â
Stay Smart & Safe in the Connected World
Look, I'm just as pumped about our smart, hyper-connected future as anyone. The potential for awesome new technologies and conveniences is mind-blowing. But we've got to enjoy the magic responsibly, you know?
Taking 5 minutes to properly segregate your networks with this dead-simple router trick is an easy way to get the best of both worlds. Your smart fridge and home assistants get internet access, while your private data and devices stay safely quarantined and secure.
In our massively connected world, a little preventative network hygiene goes a very long way in protecting your digital safety. Now if you'll excuse me, I need to verbally confirm my toothbrush's new network name…
To ensure your smart home devices are properly isolated for maximum security, schedule a no-obligation network assessment with KRS. Click here to book your consultation or call 973-657-2391 today.