A home network is no longer a luxury item, but a necessity. That is especially true for homes with many smart home technologies and devices connected to the Wi-Fi. While your equipment and your wiring are the first step to a lighting quick connection, what are you doing to secure your home networking? Most homeowners in Windsor, CO and across the country only have a limited understanding of the terminology and techniques surrounding their cyber security. Continue reading to learn about some key terms.
See Also: Why Automate Your Home?
Location Tracking/App Permissions
As apps become increasingly popular, they represent a bigger lure for criminals and companies to access your information. Now, you don’t have to remove apps from your devices to remain safe, but you should be smart about what you’re sharing. That starts with not providing apps with information that they do not require. Many apps, even those who do not use maps, ask to track your location. Don’t just say “yes” to make the process quicker. Take some time to consider what permissions you will grant your apps.
Phishing
You’ve probably heard of this term before; it is any attempt to obtain information like passwords, usernames, and credit card numbers for malicious reasons. Those engaging in phishing disguise their intentions by hiding behind a trustworthy entity. Think of the email scams from the “Prince of Nigeria.” However, phishing techniques have evolved to creating fake websites that look almost exactly like the real site. These URLs are sent via email or direct communication where unwitting people directly provide these hackers with the information they seek.
Ransomware
This is a specific type of malware that locks out the owner. The hacker then can hold all of the information and documents hostage or threaten to leak the information unless a ransom is paid. Often, hackers will use phishing techniques to covertly install the ransomware onto your machine. It’s important you pay attention to where emails or messages are coming from and verify that they are a valid source.
Encryption
When you are storing or transmitting data, it can be vulnerable. Encryption is one way to secure your personal information during these periods. It is the process of converting your personal data into a code when it is stored or in limbo. That way, a third-party will have a hard time understanding your information if they access it. Decryption is the reverse process--converting the code back into useful data so that you can use it again.
HTTPS
HTTP stands for hypertext transfer protocol and is the protocol for how the information is transferred between your browser and the website. HTTPS is the secure version, and it means that all information shared between you and the website is encrypted. Pay attention to the URL, and act accordingly.
An understanding of these terms can help you protect your home network. However, you are still at risk if you haven’t taken security measures when installing your network. With the aid of a professional network installation, you’ll take the first step toward cyber security. Contact us today.
