Your Not So Smart Smart-Home- FBI Warning

FBI Warning:

The FBI released a "Tech Tuesday" update saying you should put all of your Internet of Things devices on a WiFi network that is completely separate from your computers and cell phones (source).

The vast majority of IoT devices are still weak in terms of cybersecurity, and it is much easier for hackers to compromise these devices. Once they compromise those devices, it is easier to crack anything else on that same network. When they're on the same network as your primary devices (computers, laptops, servers, cell phones, etc) then that is an easy backdoor to go through.

What is an IoT device?

IoT stands for the Internet of Things. And, that name is pretty much what it sounds like. The Internet of Things is just that- any other "thing" that connects to the Internet.

This could be assistants like Alexa and Google Home, printers, smart thermostats, security systems, and even things like smartwatches, fitness trackers, refrigerators, and gaming systems such as Xbox or Playstation.

The list of things connecting to the Internet seems to be growing every month at this point, so just be on top of it and don't take it for granted.

Should Everything Get Their Own Network?

Now, should all devices be on separate WiFi networks? The rule of thumb is to separate out anything that has sensitive information.

If any of those IoT devices need to "talk" to each other, they can be one the same network too. Or, if they all lack important data (a smart thermostat perhaps, for instance), throw them together too.

However, for example, if your gaming system or home assistant has a credit card on file, you might want to give each its own WiFi network, and not overlap with your computer and cell phone networks.

Also, don't keep using the default passwords a device came with. You want to make the passwords long and complicated (your may not be able to use a password manager here, but this is at the office or at home, so you can write it down and physically store it in a filing cabinet or something).

Limitations:

Most routers allow you to set up at least 4 WiFi networks and you're not likely to need more than that. If you do and you hit a wall creating more WiFi networks, then grab some quick IT help and you'll be fine.