Here's how you can optimise cybersecurity and you can find the best tradies to help you in your quest to improve your home security.
In today's world, home security doesn’t just involve securing doors, windows, and physical entry points; it also requires safeguarding against cyber threats.
As more households in Australia adopt smart devices—like locks, cameras, and lighting—there’s an increased risk of potential cyber intrusions. If these devices are not secured, cyber attackers could access sensitive information, control smart devices, and compromise your home’s security.
Here’s what you need to know to keep your smart home devices safe and how engaging with cybersecurity-savvy tradies can help protect both your digital and physical security.
Don't miss out on our complete guide to improving your home security!
Secure All Devices with Strong Passwords
Most smart home devices come with default passwords, which are often easy for hackers to guess. These passwords can be found online or easily cracked by cyber attackers, so changing them is one of the first and most important steps to securing your smart home. Choose a unique, strong password for each device—ideally with a mix of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols. Avoid using easily guessed information, like birthdates or common words.
It’s also essential to regularly update passwords. Many people get comfortable with one password for all devices, but frequent updates can help deter hackers who might have cracked an older password. If managing all these passwords sounds overwhelming, a home security expert can assist with device installations and password management, ensuring that every device is properly configured and secure.
Regularly Update Device Firmware
Just as your computer or smartphone needs regular software updates, smart home devices require firmware updates to keep up with security improvements. Manufacturers release these updates to patch vulnerabilities, add new features, and strengthen security against the latest threats. Neglecting firmware updates can leave your devices exposed to attacks, so it’s wise to keep an eye on update notifications and apply them as soon as they’re available.
Setting up regular reminders or enabling automatic updates where possible can make it easier to stay on top of firmware changes. For a more comprehensive solution, consult with a smart home security expert to handle the firmware setup and ensure all your devices are running on the latest software. Many tradies who specialise in security installations offer maintenance packages to monitor and update these settings for you.
Change Default Usernames and Disable Unnecessary Features
In addition to default passwords, many devices also come with standard usernames that are easy for hackers to discover. Changing these usernames adds an extra layer of security by making your devices less identifiable to outsiders. Also, some smart home devices come with features you might not use, like remote access or guest login. Disabling these unnecessary features limits the potential entry points for a hacker.
If your device setup includes multiple products with overlapping features, an experienced handyman or tech-savvy tradie can streamline the process, adjusting settings to optimise security while keeping the devices user-friendly.
Set Up a Separate Network for Smart Devices
One of the best ways to safeguard your primary internet connection is by setting up a separate network solely for smart home devices. This approach minimises risk, as any potential breach in the smart home network won’t directly impact your main Wi-Fi, which may host more sensitive data like personal files and work information. Most modern routers support creating guest networks, which can serve as dedicated smart device networks.
Setting up a separate network can sometimes be complex, especially for homeowners unfamiliar with networking. A qualified technician or network specialist can help establish a segmented network, showing you how to control each device and monitor network activity for any unusual behaviour. They can also offer advice on choosing secure Wi-Fi protocols, like WPA3, for added protection.
Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
Many modern smart devices support two-factor authentication (2FA), which provides an additional layer of security beyond passwords. When 2FA is enabled, logging into your device or app will require a second form of verification, such as a code sent to your phone. This step ensures that even if someone manages to guess your password, they still need access to your secondary verification method to log in.
For devices where 2FA is optional, enabling it is highly recommended to protect your smart home ecosystem. If you’re unsure how to set this up, a tech-savvy handyman or security expert can assist, ensuring that each device is set up with 2FA for maximum security.
Protect Against Phishing and Malware
Cyber threats often come through email or text in the form of phishing scams or malicious links. Being aware of these tactics and avoiding suspicious links can keep you safe from malware that could compromise your smart home security. Some malware is specifically designed to target smart devices, turning them into backdoors for cybercriminals.
Using security software on your primary devices and employing network-wide protection, like firewalls, can provide a broader shield against these threats. If you're unfamiliar with selecting or configuring these tools, a home security or tech expert can help identify the best solutions tailored to your needs, installing software and setting up monitoring alerts to notify you of potential issues.
Monitor Device Usage and Review Permissions
A crucial part of cybersecurity involves monitoring device activity and controlling permissions. Some smart devices allow you to view recent activity, providing a record of any interactions or changes to the settings. Regularly reviewing device usage can alert you to any unusual behaviour, like attempted logins or unexplained changes in configuration.
It’s also helpful to review the permissions granted to each device, particularly those involving location access, microphone, or camera. A handyman experienced with smart home installations can help guide you through this review process, recommending privacy settings that ensure your devices only function as needed, with no unnecessary access to sensitive information.
Partnering with Professionals for a Comprehensive Security Strategy
Given the increasing sophistication of smart home devices, it’s essential to maintain both physical and digital security to protect your household. By collaborating with professionals—whether it’s carpenters, electricians, handymen, or smart home specialists—you can feel confident that your home is well-secured against both traditional and cyber threats. From installing and configuring devices to managing software updates and setting up cybersecurity measures, qualified tradespeople provide invaluable expertise.
Explore ServiceSeeking.com.au's pool of trusted tradies to find the right professionals to support your home’s security needs. They can help you create a customised strategy that keeps your home safe, secure, and future-proof.
With the right blend of smart technology and professional guidance, you can enjoy the peace of mind that your home and loved ones are well-protected.
