Your coffee maker switched on by itself; Looks like you have been hacked

BY SIMONE J. SMITH

Imagine your coffee maker switching on by itself, staying on for hours, overheating and becoming a fire hazard. You notice that the house has become cold, and when you check, the thermostat temperature has been adjusted, and you don’t remember doing it. You come downstairs in the rising, and you notice that your oven is on, but you did not cook the night before. That’s not science fiction. As more appliances, and devices become connected to the internet (a phenomenon often referred to as the Internet of Things, or IoT), the potential for security vulnerabilities and cyber threats also increases.

Many IoT devices have limited computing resources, which makes it challenging to implement robust security measures. Some devices lack proper encryption or authentication mechanisms, making them susceptible to unauthorized access. Some IoT devices come with default usernames and passwords that are rarely changed by users. If these credentials are not updated, hackers can easily exploit them to gain access to the device.

IoT devices often run on firmware, and outdated, or insecure firmware at times can introduce vulnerabilities. Manufacturers may not always provide timely updates or patches, leaving devices exposed to potential exploits. Devices in a smart home are often interconnected, creating a chain of vulnerabilities. If one device is compromised, it may serve as a gateway for attackers to access other devices on the same network.

The rapid growth of IoT has outpaced the development of standardized security protocols. This lack of uniformity can lead to inconsistencies in security practices among different manufacturers. IoT devices collect and transmit data, and if this data is not properly secured, it can be intercepted, or manipulated by hackers. This poses a significant threat to user privacy.

How do you prevent that from happening? Here are some safety tips:

If your gadget uses a password to access the settings, change that password frequently. Ideally, change it once every 3 months.

Some gadgets, such as alarm systems, come with their own connection to the internet. Learn how to turn that connection off if it becomes necessary to do so.

Don’t leave an internet-connected appliance, or other gadget on constantly unless it’s required. For example, you don’t need your home speaker system connected to your digital music providers all the time.

Baby monitors with video are a common target for hackers. Use a password unique to that device and change it often. Never leave the monitor on when not in use.

Never share passwords with anyone unless it is absolutely necessary. Most home Wi-Fi systems have a “guest” feature with a separate password and limited access. Use it.

In this age of internet connectivity — from coffee makers to stereos and even washing machines — it’s smart to play it safe. Know what’s connected and protect yourself.