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

Do You Need To Worry About Smart Home Hacking In Ann Arbor?

In many ways, smart components like security cameras and video doorbells have enhanced our security. We are able to get updates whenever a visitor walks up to our front door, and we can even have video clips sent to us when questionable behavior is detected. Having devices we are able to interact with via the internet alerts us to prospective hazards instantly. But there is one primary downside. The access that keeps us connected is also creating a pathway for online invasions.

Although you don’t need to lose sleep agonizing over smart home hacking in Ann Arbor, you need to be aware of the potential danger and take action to circumvent it.

Methods To Block Smart Home Hacking

It would seem that just about everything is linked to the internet these days - home security components, televisions, and even your home appliances like ovens and refrigerators. This also creates more pathways for hackers to sneak into your network. That doesn't mean you have to avoid wireless home security systems or other smart appliances. Rather, follow these suggestions and do your part to keep intruders out of your network.


  • Create hard-to-guess passwords: This is a requirement for any account, and that includes your wireless configuration. Use uppercase and lowercase and a mix of letters, special characters, and numbers. Stay away from birthdays, street names, or other things hackers might easily figure out. A password creator will provide something completely random and a password manager will assist you in tracking your various accounts and passwords.


  • Change default settings: When hooking up your new router, it will probably come with a standard password to get you started. Don’t forget to update it. Hackers may be aware of these default passwords as well. Configuring your Wi-Fi network and new router correctly at the start is critical in keeping you secure.


  • Consider separate networks: Why have your smart range, your security sensors, and the laptop you use for work on the same network? Most routers allow you to create a separate guest network. Take advantage of it and shield important material found on your desktop, laptop, and phone.


  • Install a firewall: Firewalls aren’t merely for commercial networks. They might also be integrated with your private network. Firewalls will watch your network’s traffic and thwart suspicious activity. You could begin with a router that offers an integrated firewall.


  • Use the latest encryption standards and security protocols: If you have a newer router, you might have the chance to use WPA3, the current wireless security protocol. If not, WPA2 with AES encryption will be sufficient. You need to install home security devices that protect with 128-bit or higher.


  • Make sure firmware and software is current: Keep your operating systems up to date for all equipment, including your networked camera surveillance. Frequently, these updates will fix known issues and bolster your security.
 

Be Wary of Lower Quality Smart Home Devices In Ann Arbor

When you work with a respected company like ADT, you’ll be impressed by the fact that any security gaps in video cameras or other devices are addressed in a timely and expert manner. Other lesser-known brands may not be so conscientious. Buying your smart thermostat, video doorbell, surveillance system, and additional components from a single supplier like ADT is the right move. And getting all of your systems connected at the same time will go a long way to ensuring seamless configuration, security, and performance. It’s important to note that ADT Command, the hub of your security system, employs two-way encryption when communicating with your connected components.

Design Your Own Ann Arbor Home Security System

As you now have a greater understanding on how to keep your home network safe from cyber criminals, it’s time to start on your own smart home security system in Ann Arbor. The security experts at Secure24 Alarm Systems will help you create the perfect package for your property. Call (734) 224-3173 or submit the form to upgrade your home’s protection.