Do you have a smart hub at home? A smart hub usually works by integrating various smart-home devices with a central personal assistant (i.e. Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, etc.). The hub itself manages all of your connected devices for your home, such as: a connected thermostat to monitor your home's HVAC system, an Internet-connected security system, a smart TV, wireless internet-connected camera, smart lightbulbs, a baby monitor, a smart range and refrigerator, or an Internet connected automobile.
With a smart hub, the possibilities are endless!
Most likely, you are using several of these devices – which are labeled as the Internet of Things (IoT). IoT devices are: physical devices, vehicles, home appliances, and other items embedded with electronics, software, sensors, and connectivity which enables these things to connect and exchange data. Embedded with technology, these devices communicate, interact, and can be remotely monitored and controlled. These IoT devices collect, analyze, and transmit information about a person’s behavior and lifestyle; these services and functions provide benefits for the person, but also come with security and privacy issues.
IEE Journal's article "A Survey on Security and Privacy Issues in Internet-of-Things" states the main security issues for smart devices are authentication, access control, confidentiality, privacy, trust, secure software, and mobile security. Many smart devices contain embedded computer systems, which means they have the same security risks as that of regular computers. IoT is creating a new environment where malware can be used to create botnets: a collection of internet-connected devices, which may include PCs, servers, mobile devices, and other devices that are infected and controlled by a common type of malware designed to attack and infect other machines. In other words – your devices "brains" turn in to botnet "zombies" and the results are absolutely malicious behavior.
We are in an era in which devices are designed to be connected to the Internet, so you'll want to be cautious and smart about protecting your privacy and yourself when setting up a smart-home. Therefore, it is important that you:
If you have any questions about cybersecurity or want to learn more about how to stay safe online, please contact University of Miami's Information Security Office (ISO) at: ciso@miami.edu.
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