Can Smart Devices Be Hacked?

Can a Smart TV Be Hacked? Key Risks and Solutions

Cyber-attackers can hack smart TVs via a vulnerable app or other internet-enabled feature. If a TV is compromised, it’s possible that hackers can access built-in cameras and microphones – putting your privacy and security at risk.

While this sounds scary, there are ways to mitigate these dangers.

The solutions for protecting your smart TV include:

• Disabling unnecessary features – Don’t use an app? Uninstall it. Don’t use voice control? Turn off microphone access. The fewer features enabled, the fewer opportunities for hackers. You can always change your settings to turn things on when needed. For example, you can turn on a built-in camera when video calling a family member but otherwise leave it off (or kept covered).
• Securing accounts – Just like all online accounts, you need to have strong password security for any apps or other logins you access via your TV. Make sure your passwords are unique to each account and difficult for an intruder to guess. If you can, set up two-factor authentication to prevent others from accessing your account even if they do guess your password.
• Keep your software up to date – Smart TVs are vulnerable to malware and viruses if they’re not updated. Routinely check for updates to keep your smart TV installed with the latest software. Manufacturers will roll out updates when they become aware of a vulnerability, meaning older versions are less protected from external threats.
• Secure your router – Your smart home devices are only ever as secure as your network. So, making sure your Wi-Fi router is secure will protect your smart TV and any other devices connected to your Wi-Fi. Secure your router with a firewall and by changing the generic assigned password. If an intruder can’t access your network, it will be harder for them to get to your TV.

Can Smart Bulbs Be Hacked? Understanding the Risks

Smart bulbs can be hacked. Wondering why hackers would want to compromise a smart bulb? Hackers target smart bulbs to gain access to broader home networks, which then allows them to connect to other devices using the same Wi-Fi.

To secure smart bulbs, follow our tips:

• Use an encrypted hub - When you’re picking your bulbs and overall lighting system, look for an option that offers encryption. You want to secure your smart lighting with a strong password – not just paired with Bluetooth with no additional security measure. If you can, pick a system that requires two-factor authentication for any changes.
• Always update your systems - Run any firmware updates for your smart lighting system, bulbs and other devices in your network (including your internet router). 
• Check the bulbs’ quality certifications - Look out for certifications like IEC 62471 and UL listings or the CE marking. These certifications will tell you the bulbs have been made to a certain standard. If you choose bulbs made by a reputable brand with recognisable certifications, they’re more likely to adhere to security protocols.
• Avoid public Wi-Fi - Don’t expose your network to vulnerabilities by connecting to a public Wi-Fi. If you live in a shared building, make sure your lighting is only accessible via your private network and not a wider network that others can connect unwanted devices to.

For more information, visit our smart bulb safety guide which covers data security, heat management and electrical safety.

Secure Smart Devices: Tips for Protecting Your Smart Home

Many of the tips for securing your smart TV and smart bulbs from hackers apply to all devices across your smart home.

If you take the following security measures with every device, you’ll better secure your smart devices:

• Use strong passwords – Always use unique, strong passwords that combine letters, numbers and special characters. You can use a password generator to help here. If you need a strong password that you’ll remember, try the generation method where you pair together two unrelated words to create a memorable phrase and then add numbers or symbols for extra security. Never stick with the factory default password.
• Enable two-factor authentication – Two-factor authentication (also known as 2FA) provides an extra security step. Sometimes, you’ll receive a code via text or email that you must enter in addition to your password. Enable 2FA wherever you can to add another layer of security.
• Update firmware and software – Manufacturers will periodically release updates to address any security weaknesses affecting their devices. Regularly check for updates to keep everything running on the latest version.
• Set up a separate, secure network for smart devices – For extra security, set up a “guest network” or “secondary network” via your router that you exclusively use to connect all your smart home and Internet of Things (IoT) devices. This keeps them separate from any vulnerabilities caused by malware on a laptop, for example. If you need help with setting up networks, a CEDIA professional installer can do this.

DIY vs. Professional Installation: How It Affects Security

Both DIY and professional installations of smart home systems and devices can be secure. However, there are usually more risks with a DIY installation. That’s because professionals have more knowledge surrounding security issues and an in-depth understanding of how to reduce vulnerabilities. 

Using a professional installer is generally the more favourable option for a higher level of security. The more elements your smart home system has, the more likely you’ll need a professional installer – regardless of security concerns. 

There are lots of benefits to using a professional CEDIA-approved installer. Enhanced security is one of these. They’ll be able to set things up with heightened security and ensure that no devices are leaving other parts of your network vulnerable. Plus, you can hire a Smart Home Professional to assist with regular maintenance and system updates. That way, you can keep your devices up-to-date, secure and working as intended.

CEDIA members are experts at integration and system optimisation. You can trust a CEDIA-certified professional to reduce any vulnerabilities in your smart home system and secure your devices.

How CEDIA Professionals Help Secure Your Smart Home

When you hire a CEDIA-certified professional, you pay for their labour, time and expertise. The knowledge CEDIA-certified professionals have from their extensive training and on-the-job experience is invaluable when they’re installing or updating your smart home system. CEDIA professionals understand smart home security and will set everything up to mitigate hacking risks. Plus, they’ll provide ongoing support.

CEDIA members are a trusted choice for creating a safe and functional smart home. If you’re interested in installing new smart home devices and want to secure your system, get in touch with a Smart Home Professional. To find a CEDIA-certified installer near you, visit our Smart Home Professional directory.

If you follow our tips to secure your smart TV, smart bulbs and other devices, you’ll increase the security of your smart home and make it harder for hackers to access your system. To maximise your smart home security, get in touch with a CEDIA member who’ll help you secure even the most complex smart home systems.