By Willie Le Roux, Head of Technology, Knight Protection
Modern homes are more connected than ever, and that brings real benefits. As Head of Technology, I see every day how cameras, alarms and smart devices give families greater visibility and control. But home networks can be accessed without anyone realising, putting the very systems designed to keep a family safe into someone else’s hands.
The good news is that most of the steps that prevent this are simple, quick and free. Here is my short guide to keeping your home systems secure.
Your home security is only as strong as the devices and networks connected to it. Cameras, alarms, smart doorbells and the apps that control them can all be targeted by criminals, so protecting them online is just as important as locking your doors.
Use public Wi-Fi with caution
– Avoid logging into security apps, banking or email on public Wi-Fi in hotels, airports and cafés.
– Use your mobile data or a personal hotspot instead, where possible.
– If you must use public Wi-Fi, we recommend using a reputable VPN (virtual private network).
– Turn off auto-connect so your devices don’t join unknown networks automatically.
– Be wary of networks with generic names such as “Free Airport WiFi”. Criminals set up fake hotspots to capture data.
Passwords
– Use a different password for every account, especially your security system and email.
– Make them long. Three random words (e.g. CoffeeTrainPurple!) are strong and easy to remember.
– Change any default passwords on devices you have access to straight away.
– Use a password manager to store them securely.
Two-factor authentication (2FA)
– Switch on 2FA for your security apps, email and banking. Even if a password is stolen, it stops criminals getting in.
Keep everything updated
– Install updates on phones, laptops, apps and security devices promptly. Updates fix known weaknesses.
– Replace older devices that no longer receive updates.
Protect your home network
– Change your router’s default admin password and Wi-Fi password.
– Consider a separate “guest” network for visitors and smart devices.
Spotting scams
– Be cautious of unexpected emails, texts or calls asking you to log in, reset a password or confirm details.
– Don’t click links in unexpected messages. Go directly to the official app or website instead.
– Your security provider will never ask for your password.
If something doesn’t look right
– Change your passwords immediately, starting with email and your security system.
– Contact us straight away so we can check your system.
