ADT® Authorized Dealer Serving Chattanooga & Surrounding Areas
December 05, 2022

Is There A Reason To Be Concerned About Smart Home Hacking In Chattanooga?

In various ways, smart components like security cameras and video doorbells have enhanced our security. We can receive updates if a stranger comes up our front door, and we can even have video clips delivered to us when questionable activity is found. Having devices we can access via the internet warns us of developing hazards instantly. But there is one chief drawback. The quick access we enjoy is also creating a pathway for online invasions.

Even though you don’t have to get yourself in a panic agonizing over smart home hacking in Chattanooga, you ought to be cognizant of the potential safety issue and take steps to steer clear of it.

Methods To Protect Yourself From Smart Home Hacking

Just about anything is able to be connected to the internet these days - your home’s security sensors, smart lights, and even your refrigerator. The issue is that this generates more opportunities for cyber criminals to break into your network. That doesn't mean you have to forgo wireless home security systems or other smart devices. Alternatively, abide by these suggestions and take steps to keep intruders out of your network.


  • Create hard-to-crack passwords: This is a requirement for any account, especially your home Wi-Fi. Use lower and upper casing and a mix of letters, numbers, and acceptable special characters. Don’t use dates of birth, street names, or anything else hackers could easily determine. A password fabricator will give you something completely random and password management software will assist you in tracking your different accounts.


  • Avoid default settings: When you first unbox that new router, it’s likely to come with a preprogrammed password to get you started. Don’t forget to update it. Hackers may have these default settings as well. Establishing your private network and router correctly from day one will go a long way to maintaining your security.


  • Set up more than one network: Why put your smart oven, your security sensors, and your home computer on the same network? Many routers will let you set up a separate guest network. Be sure to use it and shield personal information present on your desktop, laptop, and phone.


  • Consider installing a firewall: Firewalls aren’t merely for businesses. They may also be used on personal network. Firewalls are able to watch what’s happening on your network and stop suspicious activity. You might start with a router with an integrated firewall.


  • Choose the top encryption settings and security protocols: If you own a newer router, you might be able to use WPA3, the current wireless security protocol. If not, WPA2 with AES encryption will be sufficient. You need to look for home security devices that use 128-bit encryption or higher.


  • Ensure firmware and software is up-to-date: Keep your firmware and software at the latest levels for all components, which includes your integrated video cameras. Frequently, these updates will patch various susceptibilities and bolster your network security.
 

Be Cautious of Cheap Smart Home Devices In Chattanooga

Leading companies like ADT and Amazon have their status to uphold and are more likely to remedy a security issue in their equipment. Other lesser-known products might not be quite as diligent. Purchasing your smart thermostat, video doorbell, surveillance system, and other items from a single reputable company like ADT is a wise choice. And getting all of your systems hooked up at once will go a long way to ensuring proper implementation, security, and performance. It’s also good to know that ADT Command, the central touchpad interface, uses two-way encryption when interacting with your integrated devices.

Design Your Own Chattanooga Home Security System

Since you now have a greater understanding on how to keep your private network safe from cyber criminals, you’re ready to get started on your own smart home security system in Chattanooga. The security specialists at Secure24 Alarm Systems will help you customize the ideal package for your property. Call (423) 241-8594 or submit the form to get started.