Cybersecurity At Home
Cybersecurity is not a common discussion point when installing a home network or when implementing smart home technology. Yet it is becoming increasingly important as more devices connect to your home network and working from home prevails. Burglars, predators, financial criminals, and more are starting to use technology to their advantage, and a connected home with a lack of cybersecurity is the obvious target.
Smart Home Device Risks
An unsecured home network provides malicious actors a gateway into every aspect of your life. They can gain access to devices such as smart thermostats to determine when you are not home. Smart speakers allow them to listen in on your conversations. Just a single compromised smart home device puts the entire home network, and consequently every device connected to it, at risk. To prevent such intrusions, it is best to adhere to the following network security protocols:
- Enable WPA2 security to guard access to your WiFi router. This setting is enabled by default on most routers; it requires each device connecting to the network to enter a password to connect. If this is not enabled on your router, this is the first step to take in securing your home network.
- Ensure that all devices on your network are up to date. Most smart home devices have an option to automatically update themselves to the latest software versions, which often contain important security updates.
- Install a hardware firewall. Firewalls monitor inbound and outbound traffic on your network, and while most routers have a basic firewall installed, the entirety of the network is reliant on that single firewall. A hardware firewall connects directly to your router and adds a much stronger level of protection to the home network.
Security System Risks
Most home security is focused on monitoring. However, cameras and alarm systems can only go so far. If an intruder wishes to break into your home, they can bypass typical monitoring setups with tools as simple as a crowbar (break into the home), wire cutter (neutralize the alarm system), and cell phone jammer (prevent the alarm system/home residents from calling the police). This is often made easier for criminals when homeowners display signs with the brand of their security system outside of their home; while this can deter a potential intruder, it is also providing valuable information to others.
Rare Homes can install security systems that strengthen typical monitoring capabilities, and also provide offensive/defensive options not typically seen in home security today. On the monitoring front, we install enterprise-grade cameras with microphones for full coverage and months of video storage. These cameras can come pre-installed with security software such as facial and license plate recognition. We will also install multiple alarm systems in your home for redundancy and added layers of protection. Offensive security measures can incapacitate intruders without your involvement, while defensive measures can offer child protection and more.
Please contact us at hello@rare-homes.com to discuss how Rare Homes can design and install the home security system of tomorrow for you.