In the modern home, everything from televisions and smartphones to fridges, doorbells, and baby monitors is now connected. While smart devices offer convenience and efficiency, this growing interconnectivity also increases the risk of cyber attacks.
Cybercriminals are opportunistic and constantly looking for weaknesses to exploit. If vulnerabilities exist, attackers may steal personal or financial data, spy on household activity, infect devices with malware, commit cybercrime using compromised devices, or launch large-scale attacks such as Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS).
Top Tips to Prevent Your Smart Home from Being Hacked
To reduce the risk of attack and protect your household, follow these essential smart home security tips:
1. Change Default Usernames and Passwords
The first and most important step is to change default usernames and passwords. Manufacturers often use generic credentials that are widely available online, making them easy targets for attackers.
Using strong, unique passwords significantly reduces the likelihood of unauthorised access.
2. Hide Your Network from View
Your Wi-Fi network name, known as an SSID, is publicly visible by default. Many routers use manufacturer-assigned names, which can reveal the type of hardware you are using.
Changing your SSID to something unrecognisable makes it harder for attackers to identify and target your network.
3. Enable Wireless Network Encryption
Encryption protects your data by making it unreadable to unauthorised users. It is one of the most effective ways to safeguard information transmitted across your home network.
WPA2 encryption is recommended for home networks. Older devices that do not support WPA2 should be upgraded to ensure adequate security.
4. Only Use Well-Known Brands
Reputable manufacturers are more likely to prioritise security during product design and release regular updates to fix vulnerabilities.
Choosing trusted brands reduces the risk of poorly secured devices entering your home network.
5. Regularly Update Software
Smart device firmware can contain vulnerabilities that hackers exploit if left unpatched. Many devices require manual updates, so users should routinely check for new firmware releases.
Making software updates part of a monthly routine helps maintain long-term protection.
6. Use Firewalls
Most modern routers include built-in firewalls that block unauthorised access. Ensuring your firewall is enabled adds an essential extra layer of defence against network-based attacks.
Learn More About MetaCompliance Solutions
Smart home security highlights the growing importance of cyber awareness and responsible user behaviour. MetaCompliance helps individuals and organisations reduce cyber risk by addressing the human element of security.
Our Human Risk Management Platform supports safer digital behaviour through:
- Automated Security Awareness Training
- Advanced Phishing Simulations
- Risk Intelligence & Analytics
- Compliance Management
By strengthening awareness and reducing human risk, households and organisations can better protect connected environments. Contact us today to learn more.
How to Prevent your Smart Home from Being Hacked: FAQs
Why are smart homes vulnerable to hacking?
Many devices have weak default settings or outdated software that attackers can exploit.
Can hackers access smart home cameras?
Yes, if devices are poorly secured or passwords are weak.
Do firewalls protect smart homes?
Yes, firewalls help block unauthorised access to your home network.
What is the biggest smart home security risk?
Human behaviour, such as weak passwords and ignored updates, remains the greatest risk.