“Alexa, stop spying on me!” How to handle the Internet of Things

The popularity of the Amazon Echo and Google Home devices is probably any sci-fi fan’s dream. With a simple verbal command, you can ask these smart speakers to perform anything from getting personalized traffic updates, changing the thermostat in your home, or even ordering a pizza. (Sadly, they can’t materialize Earl Grey tea… yet.)

Staying connected to the Internet at all times using devices like smart speakers, watches, home systems, and appliances is becoming more commonplace, but so is finding ways to hack them.

The Internet of Things (IoT)

The term Internet of Things (IoT) basically means connecting any device with an on/off switch to the Internet. This can be anything from a smartphone, to wearable devices, to your own refrigerator. Connecting these devices to the Internet and each other streamlines a lot of tedious tasks to make your life easier. Imagine that your alarm clock going off at 6 a.m. triggers your coffee machine to start brewing you a cup before you’ve even gotten out of bed!

Still, convenience comes with a price. With all of your devices connected to the Internet, you’ve opened the door for these devices to be compromised. It’s how we hear stories about cyber intruders hacking baby monitors to spy on households or smart locks failing after software updates. However, you don’t need to return to the Dark Ages to protect yourself, your data, or even your home.

How to protect your IoT devices

1. Check your home router. When was the last time you updated your router with the latest security patches? Do you have a strong passphrase, or is it still the router’s default password? If you ensure your network is protected, the devices connected to it will also be protected.
2. Connect all of your IoT devices on a separate guest network. Many routers provide an option to create a guest Wi-Fi network. Connect all of your IoT devices there, and link devices like your computer or phone to the main Wi-Fi network. By doing this, any attacks on your IoT devices will be separate from personal data in your computer.
3. Research, research, research! That smart lock for your front door is selling at a great price! But is it from a reputable company? How do they assure their product is secure from cyber threats? Always do your research before buying a smart device.
4. Play it safe with current IoT devices. It’s great to have a baby monitor at home for peace of mind. However, when you’re not using it, turn off the camera and microphone (and that goes for similar devices as well!). Also, make sure you accept software updates on your devices so they have the latest security settings.  
5. Never connect your IoT device to an unknown network. It may be tempting to check your bank balance from your smart watch using Starbucks’ Wi-Fi, but don’t do it. Wait until you’re connected to a secure network you trust.

October is National Cyber Security Awareness Month, an annual collaborative effort between government and industry to ensure we have the resources you need to maintain your security online. Throughout October, we’ll be sending you tips on protecting your information and avoiding malicious attempts to extract your personal data. See our past tips here.