New Security Risks

Trading Innovative Technology for New Security Risks

The advancement of technology has introduced smart technology options into nearly every aspect of our homes, called consumer Internet of Things (IoT) devices.  From easy-to-install home security options to smart kitchen appliances, consumers can control multiple aspects of their home routines and schedules through their phones. While the options allow an ability for greater efficiency and convenience, the speed the products were introduced versus the security risk these products introduced alongside them, are not always fully considered when implementing them into homes.

While most consumers are aware of the importance of protecting their network, things like smart refrigerators, coffee machines, and lightbulbs, that use the same network, are often overlooked and are not being scrutinized to the same level as more obvious devices. With each introduction of a new smart device, comes alongside it a new opportunity for a potential security breach. Your smart home can remain safe by taking the time to better protect your network from threats. Here are some easy to implement ways to ensure your IoT devices are protected:

• Immediately change the name of your router from the default name given upon setting it up, choosing a lengthy combination of upper and lowercase letters, numbers and special characters.
• Maintaining unique passwords for each device ensures if one device is potentially compromised, the other devices still remain safe.
• Choosing the option for a guest network will also allow anyone that wants to use your network a completely separate network that further protects your IoT devices from being accessed by anyone else. 
• If your devices aren’t automatically setup with a two-factor authentication, check the device’s settings and enable the option, which will add an additional step in verification, so if anyone does try to hack into your smart device, they will be required to prove identity.

Please continue to check our Security Center for updates and tips, and if you experience any security related activity with any of your Amboy Bank accounts, please contact us immediately at 877-222-6269 or reportfraud@amboybank.com.