IoT and Smart Devices: Staying Safe

What is an IoT Device?

An IoT device is any physical object that connects to the internet and can send or receive data. Examples include:

• • Routers: The device that connects your home or office to the internet. Because every other device on your network relies on it, a hacked router gives criminals a way to monitor, redirect, or block your internet traffic.
  • Smart Home Devices: Smart thermostats, lights, locks, cameras, and voice assistants such as Amazon Alexa or Google Home.
  • Wearables: Fitness trackers (for example Fitbit) and smartwatches.
  • Connected Vehicles: Cars with internet-enabled navigation or entertainment systems.
  • Appliances: Smart fridges, ovens, washing machines, and other connected household devices.
  • Industrial IoT: Sensors in manufacturing equipment, smart meters, and building automation systems.
  • Retail Technology: Smart shelves, stock trackers, and connected payment systems.

Why IoT Devices Are Vulnerable

• Many IoT devices are built at low cost with limited computing power – so security is often minimal. Common weaknesses include:

  • Default Passwords: Many devices are sold with weak or widely known default passwords.
  • Lack of Updates: Security updates may be rare or non-existent.
  • Weak Encryption: Data may be sent without proper protection.
  • Limited User Control: Some devices do not allow you to change important security settings.
  • Always Connected: Devices that are constantly online are easier for attackers to find.

How to Protect Your IoT Devices

• Change default login details
• Replace the default username and password as soon as you set up a device.
• Use strong, unique passphrases for each device.
• Keep software up to date
• Regularly check for security updates provided by the manufacturer.
• Turn on automatic updates if the option is available.
• Separate your networks
• Place IoT devices on a different network from your main computers and phones.
• Guest networks or VLANs can be used to keep traffic separate.
• Turn off features you don’t need
• Disable functions such as remote access or voice control if you do not use them.
• Turn off Universal Plug and Play (UPnP) to reduce the risk of outside access.
• Watch device behaviour
• Look out for signs of compromise – such as unusual data usage or poor performance.
• Use network monitoring tools if you can.
• Use a firewall and antivirus protection
• Protect your home or business network with up-to-date antivirus software and a secure firewall.
• Make sure your router itself is also properly secured.
• Do your research before buying
• Choose products from trusted manufacturers with a good record of security support.
• Favour devices that receive regular updates and publish clear information about vulnerabilities.

Real-World Risks

Unsecured IoT devices are a tempting target for cyber criminals. Some of the risks include:

• Botnets and Zombie Devices: A compromised device can be taken over and used as part of a ‘botnet’ – a network of hijacked devices controlled by criminals. These can be used to launch large cyber-attacks, spread malicious software, or send spam emails – all without the owner realising.
• Spying through Cameras and Microphones: Hacked cameras, baby monitors, or voice assistants may allow intruders to watch and listen inside your home or workplace – turning private spaces into a security risk.
• Theft of Personal Data: IoT devices often collect sensitive information such as your routines, location, or health details. Criminals can steal this data for fraud, identity theft, or to target you further.
• Disruption of Services: Hackers may lock you out of your devices, disable alarms, or interfere with connected vehicles and appliances.
• A Gateway to Wider Attacks: Because IoT devices sit on the same network as laptops, phones, and business systems, one weak device can give criminals a route into everything else you own.