The “Internet of Things” has potential our lives easier and has many benefits; but we can only reap these benefits if our Internet-enabled devices are secure and trusted. Here are some tips from the STOP. THINK. CONNECT. campaign and National Cyber Security Alliance to increase the security of your Internet-enabled devices:

• Keep a clean machine. Like your smartphone or PC, keep any device that connects to the Internet free from viruses and malware. Update antivirus and anti-malware software regularly on the device itself as well as the apps you use to control the device.
• Think twice about your device. Have a solid understanding of how a device works, the nature of its connection to the Internet, and the type of information it stores and transmits.
• Secure your network. Properly secure the wireless network you use to connect Internet-enabled devices. Don’t forget to use a strong password and update software regularly to protect your Wi-Fi router at home.
• Understand how to keep IoT devices up to date. This includes any software updates that might be needed and passwords or other ways of securing devices.
• Understand what’s being collected. Most IoT devices require data collection. Take the time to understand what information your connected devices collect and how that information is managed and used.
• Where does your data go? Many IoT devices will send information to be stored in the cloud. Understand where your data will reside and the security protecting your personal information.
• Do your research! Before you adopt a new smart device, research it to make sure others have had positive experiences with the device from a security and privacy perspective. The Mozilla Foundation’s Privacy Not Included website is a great resource for reviewing the potential security and privacy concerns surrounding a new ‘smart’ gadget or Internet-enabled device.(https://foundation.mozilla.org/en/privacynotincluded/)