Smart home devices have been seeing quite a rise in popularity, but they also pose some serious security risks. These devices are frequently unsecured and an easy target for hackers to steal personal information and potentially even spy through the device. 75% of people feel some level of distrust about the use of their data, but many people are willing to use smart home technology anyway. While the convenience of smart home devices can be pleasant and beneficial, it's crucial to be vigilant about cyber threats. If you're not careful, a hacker can compromise a smart device network without you even knowing it. So, how can you tell if a hacker has compromised your smart home device? Here are some signs to look out for.
Unexpected Behavior
Unexpected behavior is the first sign that a smart device may have become compromised. Hackers manipulating smart devices can create unusual disturbances. If your device starts acting erratically, it's time to investigate. The earlier you are able to identify and remedy a hacked device, the more damage you can prevent. Smart speakers and voice-activated assistants are a favorite of many smart home device enthusiasts, but they also pose some of the most outstanding potential risks. Hackers can use compromised microphones and speakers to eavesdrop or even talk through them. If you start hearing unfamiliar voices or strange sounds from these devices, that is an immediate red flag. Ensure that your smart devices are only responding to authorized voices.
Unusual Network Traffic/Data Transfers
Monitoring your network is a fundamental aspect of cybersecurity. If you observe a sudden surge in data usage or unusual patterns in network traffic, that could indicate unauthorized access. Regularly checking your router's activity logs helps you stay vigilant against potential network intrusions. It is also a good idea to regularly review the list of devices connected to your home network, as it makes it easy to spot when unfamiliar or unauthorized devices appear, which is frequently a sign that someone may have breached your network. Additionally, smart devices often collect and send usage data to the cloud for analysis or storage. While that causes obvious privacy concerns, there are also even greater risks, which means you should keep an eye on your device's data usage and be wary of unexplained data transfers. Hackers may exploit vulnerabilities to extract sensitive information from your devices. Regularly review the data usage patterns of your smart devices to help identify any suspicious activity. Hackers look to connect to your network to exploit vulnerabilities in smart devices or launch attacks. Secure your network with strong passwords, and consider implementing network segmentation for added protection.
Device Settings/Access Modification
If you notice unauthorized changes to your smart device's settings, such as camera angles, sensor sensitivity, or device preferences, that could be a sign that a hacker has compromised your device. Some smart devices send notifications or emails to confirm changes in settings, passwords, or device access. If you receive such confirmations for actions you didn't take, that is a clear sign of unauthorized access, and you need to secure your account immediately. Regularly review and, if needed, update your device settings and help yourself maintain control over your smart home ecosystem. Another potential sign of a hack is suddenly finding yourself locked out of your smart home devices. If a hacker gains access to your device, they may change passwords or enable two-factor authentication to lock you out and take control of your accounts. Always act promptly to regain control and secure your accounts if you suspect unauthorized access.
Frequent Software Glitches
Smart devices receive regular software updates that patch vulnerabilities, enhance security, and fix glitches. If you start to notice frequent software glitches or your device fails to update, it could be a sign of interference by a malicious actor. Ensure that your smart devices are running the latest firmware and have the latest security patches and bug fixes installed.