Security Attacks and Countermeasures in Smart Homes (2024)

FAQs

What are the security issues with smart homes? ›

Device Security

Smart home devices, such as smart locks, cameras, and thermostats, are vulnerable to various cyber threats, including malware, hacking, and unauthorized access. Manufacturers must implement robust security measures, such as encryption, authentication, and firmware updates, to mitigate these risks.

The most common cyber-attacks on smart homes include: Device hijacking: Attackers can take over devices and can sometimes gain access to the entire network of smart home devices through one unprotected machine. This can be hard to detect since the device functions normally while under hacker control.

Smart home security risks and threats

In some cases, user manuals don't address privacy concerns or give you enough information to be sure the device is secure. For instance, baby monitors and security cameras have been hacked, giving criminals the ability to see inside a house.

Smart devices send all kinds of data about their current settings and receive data back in return. With the right malware, a cybercriminal could potentially monitor this data and try to change or block it.

Smart homes are energy-efficient, customisable, and convenient; however, they have downsides like high cost and internet dependence.

Why are smart devices a cyber security risk? Using smart devices on an unsecured Wi-Fi network poses a significant security risk as if malicious actors gain access to your home network they can potentially infiltrate and take control of all devices connected to that network.

Insecure Messaging Systems

Imagine if a messaging system sent a message to your bank account containing your pin number and was able to access your account. Smart Apps can also easily impersonate smart home devices, activating them and potentially breaching the physical security of your house.

Frequent issues with smart home systems include compatibility challenges, Internet connectivity problems, power source drain Issues, automation and routine failures, difficulty setting up and controlling, voice assistant problems, and security and privacy concerns.

Extensive Data Sharing

Many smart home devices share user data with third-party entities, often without users' knowledge or consent. This practice raises significant concerns about the extent of data sharing and the potential invasion of privacy.

All devices -- such as lights, thermostats, security systems and appliances -- are controlled by a master home automation controller, often called a smart home hub.

Which two hidden security risks can come with using smart devices? ›

While device theft, malware and man-in-the-middle (MitM) eavesdropping on unsecured networks are key threats to data security, mobile apps can have their own vulnerabilities.

Because most IoT and smart home devices don't have in-built security or encryption, it's important to set up strong passwords and multifactor authentication to prevent unauthorized access to these devices.

Despite Apple's reputation for security, iPhones rank among the most frequently hacked mobile devices globally. That is due to the enormous number of iPhones, making them a desirable target for hackers. Xiaomi is third on the list.

Voice-activated devices, like Alexa, are common. Smart speakers and assistants were found to be particularly susceptible to potential eavesdropping. The study revealed some eyebrow-raising information. There were instances where these devices recorded and transmitted unintentional audio data.

Smart home devices can be hacked by malicious actors who want to access your data, spy on you, or cause damage. Hackers can exploit vulnerabilities in the device software, firmware, or hardware, or use phishing, malware, or brute force attacks to gain access to your network or accounts.

While smart buildings have made work easier and more efficient, their increased dependency on technology and electronic devices makes them more vulnerable to various cyberattacks. If a cyberattack breaches a single connected operational device, it could put the entire network at risk.

Smart locks that rely on wireless communication, such as Bluetooth or Wi-Fi, can be susceptible to jamming or signal interception attacks. In some cases, intruders may even attempt to physically manipulate the lock mechanism to gain entry.

Security and privacy are the key ethical problems in the smart home, such as security attack, analysis of "non-sensitive" data, improper information collection and data abuse.

Beyond hacking, spying is another fear. Among those surveyed, 76% said they believe their smart home devices are always listening to them, while 61% said they think their devices are always eavesdropping on them. Some of the fears stem from targeted advertising on their phones.