Easy to hack. These 6 devices in your home need to be protected right now
The most vulnerable devices in the house and how to protect them (photo: Getty Images)
There are more and more smart devices in the modern home, but not all of them are protected from cyber threats. Hackers can easily access your Wi-Fi, cameras, and even game consoles if you don't take care of security, states MakeUseOf.
Wi-Fi routers
If there's one device in your home that hackers would love to get their hands on, it's your Wi-Fi router. The fact is that it connects all your gadgets to the Internet. If attackers hack into your router, they can access all the devices on your network, from your laptop to your smart fridge.
The two main vulnerabilities of Wi-Fi routers are outdated firmware and the use of standard logins and passwords. According to a study by the Ohio Society of CPAs, 89 percent of respondents have never updated their router firmware, and 72 percent have not changed their Wi-Fi password.
To protect your router, keep its firmware up to date. If you're not sure how to do this, refer to the update guide. Then change your default credentials to a strong, unique password with a combination of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols.
Network security is also important. Enable WPA3 encryption if your router supports it, or at least WPA2 to prevent unauthorized access.
Wi-Fi routers can be easy prey for cybercriminals (photo: MakeUseOf)
Smart surveillance cameras and video intercoms
Smart cameras and video intercoms are designed to protect your home, but they can pose a threat if not properly configured. As with Wi-Fi routers, the main vulnerabilities of these devices are outdated software and standard passwords. Hackers can use them to gain access to the broadcast, disable the device, or even infiltrate your network.
To keep your system secure, first of all, change the default passwords and enable two-factor authentication (2FA) if available. Keep your camera's firmware up to date regularly, as manufacturers frequently release patches to address vulnerabilities.
Choose models that support end-to-end encryption of video streams to prevent unauthorized access to data, even if it is intercepted. In addition, avoid using public Wi-Fi networks to view camera video, as they are often insecure.
Surveillance cameras and video intercoms can also be hacked (photo: MakeUseOf)
Smart speakers and voice assistants
Smart speakers and voice assistants, such as Google Assistant and Siri, make our lives more convenient, but they can also pose a security risk. These devices are constantly listening, and their vulnerabilities can be exploited by attackers.
In August 2024, NCC Group reported vulnerabilities in Sonos smart speakers that allowed hackers to eavesdrop on users. This is just one example of such devices being at risk of hacking.
It is more difficult to protect a smart speaker, as many problems arise from vulnerabilities on the manufacturer's side. However, you can minimize the risks:
- Check your access settings and disable unnecessary features, such as voice shopping and remote control
- Be careful when connecting third-party applications and services to your voice assistant, as they may contain vulnerabilities
Smart speakers can pose a security risk (photo: Unsplash)
Smart TVs
Your smart TV can be a loophole for hackers and a tool for data collection. Many models track what you watch, and if the device is hacked, attackers can access your home network. Some TVs come with built-in cameras and microphones that can be used for surveillance if not properly protected.
To protect yourself, disable the ACR function and other tracking tools in the TV settings. Each brand has these options hidden in different menu sections, so you should look for the instructions for your model.
Also, avoid installing unnecessary apps - each of them can be a potential threat, especially if they are not from a trusted developer.
Smart TV can be a tool for data collection (photo: MakeUseOf)
Smart home hubs and automation systems
Smart home hubs allow you to control lights, thermostats, and other devices from a single device. But this convenience makes them a desirable target for hackers. If a hub is hacked, an attacker can gain control of all gadgets connected to it.
The main risks are weak passwords and outdated software. Many users set up a hub once and never update it again, leaving the device vulnerable. Hackers can take advantage of this and attack an outdated system. They also use methods to brute force passwords and crack standard credentials.
To protect your hub, create a complex and unique password, especially if you need an online account. Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) if it is supported. Regularly check for firmware updates to eliminate vulnerabilities.
Another important point is third-party integrations. Many hubs support dozens of smart devices and applications, but each connection is a potential threat. Connect only trusted devices and avoid granting unnecessary permissions. If a third-party app doesn't need security access, don't grant it.
Additionally, you can create a separate network for smart devices. Many routers allow you to set up a guest network that isolates IoT gadgets from the main computer and smartphone connection. This will help prevent hackers from accessing the entire system if the hub is hacked.
Smart home control tablet (photo: MakeUseOf)
Game consoles
If you think game consoles are just for entertainment, hackers are ready to prove you wrong. These devices store payment data, use voice and camera functions, and collect more personal information than you might think.
In the first half of 2022, the number of attacks on gaming accounts increased by 13 percent compared to the same period in 2021. Attackers use stolen credentials from other sites to hack into gaming profiles. Once inside, they can make unauthorized purchases, sell your account, or block your access completely.
Privacy is another risk. Consoles collect data about your gaming habits, voice chats, and activity. While this improves the user experience, it can put your personal information at risk in the event of a leak.
How to protect yourself?
- Use a strong password for your gaming account ("gamer123" will not work)
- Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) - even if hackers find out your password, they still won't be able to log in
- Check the linked payment methods - it is better to delete a saved card than to discover unexpected charges one day
Configure privacy settings. In most consoles, you can limit data collection, hide activity, and disable constant microphone listening. If you don't want to be overheard, turn off voice assistants when not in use.
Your home is getting smarter and smarter, but with that convenience comes increased risks. Cybercriminals are constantly looking for weaknesses, and these devices are often the easiest targets. However, by following the tips described above, you can significantly reduce the likelihood of attacks and protect your data.
Game consoles are being hacked (photo: Unsplash)
