Archives - Smart Home


Switch off network name broadcasts

Home Wi-Fi routers automatically show up on any compatible devices in range. Inexperienced hackers can find it if they’re nearby, and start trying to crack into the network. It’s therefore a good idea to hide your router’s name. The exact process will differ depending on your provider and online account, but there should be plenty […]

Tell Google Home to only recognize your voice

Voice Match is a useful function for any Google Home device. Essentially, it makes sure the AI only responds to you and your family, so any visitors can’t access sensitive information on their own. Train Google by opening the Home app and going to Assistant Settings > Voice Match > Add A Device. You’ll have […]

Opt out of data sharing agreements

Some devices – especially IoT devices – give you the choice to share data with the manufacturer. This is typically for the purpose of collecting information that might improve system performance in the future. Opting out of this agreement is a good way to ensure your information is out of harm’s way if the manufacturer […]

Do your research before buying an IoT device

The Internet of Things (IoT) has introduced a lot of useful devices to the digital world, but also plenty of corresponding cybersecurity risks. Before purchasing smart devices, be sure to ask yourself if it’s absolutely necessary. Read reviews and do some digging to find out if the manufacturer has a history of data breaches or […]

Maintain an inventory list of all IoT devices on your network

This is especially critical for large, enterprise-grade organizations that might deploy many IoT devices across their infrastructure. Each and every device, whether it be a sensor or a tablet, is an endpoint that can be compromised by a hacker. In turn, they could lead straight toward more critical areas of your network and jeopardize sensitive […]

Update your new smart TV before logging into any accounts

Smart TVs provide a wonderful array of entertainment, but they’re also an entryway into your home network. In the time that a smart TV has been manufactured, packaged and shipped off to a distributor, there may have already been several security updates released by the developer. To rest assured that your network is safe, download […]