Some managed services providers in Southern California specialize in providing cyber security for devices that use the Internet of Things (IoT) technology. IoT is a growing trend in the IT world that consists of any device that connects to the Internet to send or receive information. These devices include thermostats, baby monitors, appliances, security cameras, and more. It is estimated that over 24 billion devices will use this technology by the year 2020. While IoT technology offers many benefits, it is important to understand the risks and the best ways to avoid them. Without the proper protection, these devices can easily be manipulated by hackers or through cyberattacks.
Here are a few ways that you can decrease the risk of becoming a victim of these malicious cyber schemes and keep your privacy protected:
Change Default Username and Password
One of the best ways to keep your home network protected is through changing the default username and password. Using a generic password can easily be hacked by a computer program. Instead, it is better to use a complex password that consists of lower and uppercase letters, numbers, and symbols. It is also a good idea to routinely change the password every few weeks. While these steps may not be bulletproof, they will make it much more difficult for a hacker to gain access to confidential information.
Update Software
As you know, cyberattacks and exploits are continuously being created on a daily basis. It is crucial to download the most recent security updates and patches as soon as they become available. Failing to download these updates significantly increases the chances of you becoming the next victim of a cyberattack. It is also a good idea to read the patch notes and understand which problems the security patch is addressing and if you need to be aware of any specific cyber threats. Fortunately, partnering with a managed services provider in Southern California will enable you to receive the latest patches to combat the wide variety of cyber security threats.
Create Lock Screen Password
An often-overlooked form of security is the ability to create a lock screen password for each device. These passwords can typically be created by accessing the settings of a device. Another good idea is to know which downloaded apps are collecting information and why it’s needed. Deleting unnecessary apps can free up space and further increase your protection.
Turn Off Smart Functions Not in Use
Many new cars are being installed with GPS location devices, entertainment systems, and hands-free calling that use IoT technology. While these technologies offer many benefits, it is essential to turn off these smart functions whenever they are not in use. Security breaches are becoming more common through these new forms of software, and turning off these functions while they are not in use is the most effective way to avoid becoming the next victim.
The use of IoT technology offers immense benefits, but it also needs to be handled with care. At ecasys, our managed services team in Southern California offers the latest protection against these cyber security threats. Our staff is trained to help answer any questions and guide you through the complex IT world. Contact us today to learn more.
