A research report by SAM Seamless Network showed that a large percentage of devices—up to 68%—are susceptible to various types of network-based attacks. That’s right— that smart thermostat, cameras, door locks, and virtual assistants you’re investing in to make life simpler could also be making you a target. If you’ve got connected devices at home, odds are some hacker somewhere could worm their way in. Not exactly comforting, is it?
Here you are, investing in smart home tech to make life simpler, safer, and more efficient, yet all that convenience might be the very thing putting your privacy at risk.
It’s a digital jungle out there.
Ever get that creeping feeling that maybe, just maybe, your security was not as airtight as you may have assumed? The truth is, you’re not paranoid. And you’re not alone.
You deserve to feel in control of your home, not worried about who or what might sneak in through a digital crack. Fortunately, protecting your smart home doesn’t have to be an overwhelming project.
So, let’s make sure you’re the one calling the shots with every device in your house. With these security tips, you’ll get the confidence and peace of mind you’re after. Ready to lock things down?
Let’s begin.
How Do Smart Homes Get Hacked?
Smart homes face unique risks because every device on the network represents an entry point for a potential hacker.
These devices, from thermostats to security cameras, connect to your home’s Wi-Fi network, which, if unsecured, can be a back door for cybercriminals.
For example, a hacker might exploit an outdated baby monitor and then use that access to dig deeper into your network, where personal data is stored. In some cases, hackers simply scan for networks with weak or default passwords, entering through poorly secured points and often going undetected.
Common Smart Home Security Vulnerabilities
Most smart home devices are often rushed to market, with a focus on user convenience rather than tight security.
For instance, some smart speakers and webcams come with weak factory-set passwords or no encryption at all.
Weak passwords, unpatched software, and outdated firmware make it easy for hackers to get into systems.
These vulnerabilities are especially present in lesser-known brands or cheaper devices that lack consistent security updates. Another common issue is that many users fail to change default credentials on their devices, making them vulnerable to even basic hacking attempts.
Smart Home Security Tips
The following are some of the best yet most ignored (or forgotten) smart home security tips.
Enable Multi-Factor Authentication (2FA)
Multi-Factor Authentication adds a crucial layer of security by requiring you to verify your identity in two different ways, usually by entering a password and then confirming via a code sent to your phone. Even if hackers have your password, this second step makes it significantly harder for them to gain access to your devices.
Opt for 2FA on all accounts linked to smart devices to protect yourself.
Disable Features You Don’t Use
Many smart devices come with features you may never touch Many smart devices, like remote access or voice activation. Disabling features you don’t use is a quick way to tighten your home’s security. For instance, if you don’t need remote access to your security camera, turn it off in the settings.
If there are functions or remote access settings that aren’t essential, turn them off. Each unnecessary feature represents an additional point of entry for hackers.
Use a Secure Smart Home Hub
A smart home hub connects all your devices and makes managing them easier, but it’s also a prime target for hackers. Choose a hub that supports secure protocols, like encryption, which scrambles data so that even if it’s intercepted, it remains unreadable.
Look for hubs that offer built-in encryption and firewall protection.
Essentially, the hub acts as the control center, and with the right defenses, it can serve as a reliable guard for your entire system.
Beware of IoT Devices from Lesser-Known Brands
While it’s tempting to go for cheaper, off-brand IoT devices, these often skimp on security to cut costs. Many smaller brands don’t invest as much in security updates or encryption, which leaves your devices vulnerable. For security, stick to well-known brands with good track records.
While they may cost a little more upfront, reputable brands are more likely to offer updates and patches regularly, keeping your home safer.
Update Device Software Consistently
Regular software updates are essential for keeping your devices secure, as they often include patches for newly discovered vulnerabilities. Set a reminder to check for updates every month or enable automatic updates if your device allows it.
These updates should be a form of routine maintenance that ensures everything keeps running smoothly and safely.
Monitor Network Activity
Keeping an eye on your network traffic can reveal unusual activity, like unfamiliar devices trying to connect. Many routers provide options for monitoring, alerting you to new devices attempting access. You might even notice patterns, like increased activity at odd hours, which can hint at potential threats.
Utilize Firewalls
Firewalls are your smart home’s first line of defense against online threats, acting as a barrier between your home network and the wider internet. They block unapproved access and help prevent malicious software from spreading.
Many modern routers come with built-in firewalls that you can enable in the settings, but there are also third-party software firewalls that provide added layers of protection.
If you want added protection, consider using a software firewall for individual devices, particularly computers or smartphones used to manage your smart home.
Virtually Segregate Your Smart Devices
Setting up a separate Wi-Fi network for smart devices, or “network segmentation,” means these devices don’t share the same network as your personal computers and phones. For example, set one network for your computers and phones and another for IoT devices like smart lights or cameras. This limits the risk; even if one device is compromised, the hacker won’t gain easy access to your most sensitive information. Most modern routers support “guest networks” that you can use for this purpose.
By virtually “fencing off” different areas, you create sections within your smart home, making it harder for a hacker to move freely if they break through one gate.
Enable Auto-Updates
Enabling automatic updates on all your devices saves you the trouble of manually checking for the latest patches and ensures that each device stays up-to-date with the latest security features. Software updates are essential because they often address known security flaws. When enabled, auto-updates mean your devices will automatically upgrade; no extra effort is required.
It’s a straightforward and highly effective way to protect your smart home from newly emerging threats without the hassle of monitoring each update manually.
Change Default Credentials During Setup
A simple but often overlooked step is to change the default login credentials on each device. Many devices come with factory-set usernames and passwords that are easy to guess—and hackers know these defaults well. By setting strong, unique passwords, you immediately close off a common vulnerability.
Skip this step, and you might as well be leaving a key under the doormat for hackers to find.
Regularly Update Device Firmware
Firmware is the core software in your device that handles its basic operations. It is the software embedded in each device that controls its basic functions, and updating it can patch security holes that could otherwise be exploited. Unlike app updates, firmware updates are less frequent but just as important for security.
Most device manufacturers release firmware updates periodically, and checking for these on a quarterly basis can keep your devices running smoothly and securely.
The Security Advantages of a Smart Home
A secure smart home can provide significant peace of mind. Smart locks can send you notifications if someone attempts to tamper with them, while connected cameras allow you to monitor real-time activity even when you’re away. The potential for automated security, like lights and alarms that can be controlled remotely, makes it easier to respond quickly if a breach does occur. When properly managed, smart homes actually improve home security by giving you greater control and immediate awareness of any unusual activity.
With devices like smart locks, cameras, and remote alarms, you can automate routine tasks as well as reinforce your home’s security system. Every connected device becomes a sentry, providing a watchful eye over your space and allowing you to take action at the first hint of a threat.
For instance, the ability to remotely control lights and alarms isn’t just convenient. It’s an active defense against potential intruders. By setting lights to switch on at intervals or sounding an alarm at unusual activity, you create the illusion that someone’s home which deters opportunistic break-ins. Real-time alerts for each sensor or camera also mean you’re no longer waiting to find out about a potential breach from neighbors or upon returning home. You’re instantly informed and can act in the moment.
Smart devices also excel in creating a log of activity, providing a detailed history of events around your home. This record can be invaluable in identifying suspicious patterns, whether it’s unusual comings and goings or attempts to access your network. It’s like a digital diary of security incidents that you can review and respond to proactively.
Another often overlooked benefit is how a secure smart home can positively impact family safety. If a fire or carbon monoxide detector triggers, the alert reaches your phone wherever you are, giving you precious time to respond. Automated alerts for these situations ensure that safety extends beyond traditional security, adding layers that can protect not only your belongings but also your loved ones.
Ultimately, a well-secured smart home is about control. You’re no longer relying solely on physical locks and traditional measures but are constantly connected to your home’s status. Every notification, every sensor check, and every alarm enhances your oversight, bringing peace of mind that extends far beyond what standard home security can offer.
The Future of Smart Home Security
The future of smart home security is heading towards more advanced, AI-driven solutions that can learn and adapt to patterns, detecting suspicious behavior and even alerting you before a breach occurs. Smart devices are already beginning to integrate stronger encryption methods and AI-based threat detection, meaning security measures could become even more intuitive.
As new threats emerge, tech companies are investing in more robust ways to keep up, promising greater security for users who remain proactive in maintaining their devices.
Bottom Line
You’ve done it! You’re stepping up to secure your smart home, and that’s no small feat. If you’re feeling a bit overwhelmed, like, “Did I catch everything? Is there more I should be doing?” That’s normal. No one can feel 100% bulletproof, especially when your home and privacy are on the line. But you’re here, you’re taking action, and that’s what counts.
Here’s the best next step: start small. Go back through this list and choose one tip that resonated with you, whether it’s enabling two-factor authentication, updating device firmware, or setting up a secure hub. Take that first action today—it’s doable, it’s meaningful, and it’s progress.
Remember, securing your home devices isn’t a one-time task. With each step, you’re not only making your devices safer but also building your confidence and control over your space. You’ve already taken the most important step by educating yourself. Now, put it into action.
Because every small change adds up to a big impact, and with that momentum, your smart home will be as safe as it is convenient. You’re protecting your world, and that’s something worth celebrating.
Beryl Odhiambo is an SEO and ghostwriter with over 4 years of experience in the SEO content writing industry. Her areas of expertise are diverse spanning from Digital Marketing, Pregnancy and Parenting, Legal, Personal Finance, SaaS and tech industry. She has a strong background in crafting engaging and informative content, including blog posts, articles, and website copy. Beryl is also a celebrated fiction author and Ghostwriter. She holds a Bachelors and PGDE in English and Literature and is a certified Teacher. Beryl has successfully helped agencies gain massive organic traffic through her high ranking content. She is passionate about helping businesses succeed online and enjoys helping readers by providing valuable insights and practical advice.