In an age where smart devices are ubiquitous in our homes, ensuring personal data privacy has never been more critical. To shed light on this pressing issue, Cyber Security Analysts and CEOs share their top strategies. The first insight discusses segmenting smart devices on a separate network, while the final tip emphasizes securing routers and avoiding internet-connected devices where possible. Discover all nine expert insights to fortify your home against privacy breaches.
- Segment Smart Devices on Separate Network
- Use Password Manager for Unique Passwords
- Set Strong Passwords and Enable 2FA
- Update Devices Regularly and Secure Wi-Fi
- Create Guest Wi-Fi for Smart Devices
- Regularly Update Firmware and Limit Data
- Use VPN and Alias Information
- Turn Off Unused Features
- Secure Router and Avoid Internet-Connected Devices
Segment Smart Devices on Separate Network
The one best practice I recommend to secure smart devices is to segment them onto their own dedicated network, which sounds complicated but is much easier than one would think. This is needed because smart devices, being connected to the internet and often exposed to the outside world, are inherently more vulnerable to hacking attempts.
For example, I set up a separate Wi-Fi network for my home smart devices to isolate them from the main network of personal devices. This ultimately reduces the risk of unauthorized access to my personal sensitive data if any of the smart devices become compromised. Although this seems technical, most modern routers allow for a simple solution. Creating a guest network can be done rather simply and can serve this purpose well.
To explain this to my family in a relatable and easy to understand manner, I frame it as creating “bubbles” of security. This approach works in a way that if a smart device did become compromised, then it will be contained within that “bubble” and not spill over to the personal device “bubble” containing sensitive information.
Beyond network segmentation, I encourage my family to limit the data in which these devices are able to collect. For example, by disabling any unnecessary features (such as storing voice recordings). For example, if you have a smart radiator thermostat and the application is asking to store voice recordings you can safely assume it doesn’t need it and deny the request.
The key to these recommendations is to not just set them up, but to explain why they matter. When you are able to understand how an insecure smart device could serve as an entry point for malicious actors, you will become more proactive in maintaining protections. In combining simple actions, personal data privacy on home devices can become a manageable and meaningful affair at home.
Elsie Day
Cyber Security Analyst, CyPro
Use Password Manager for Unique Passwords
Ensuring personal data privacy on smart devices at home is something I take very seriously, especially after a wake-up call when I noticed unusual activity on one of my accounts due to a weak password.
Since then, I’ve implemented a simple but powerful practice: using a password manager to create and store complex, unique passwords for every device and account.
This prevents me from reusing passwords and makes it harder for hackers to exploit vulnerabilities. I also routinely check and adjust privacy settings on devices like smart speakers and cameras, disabling features like automatic data sharing or voice recording storage unless necessary.
One real-life example was when I discovered that my smart assistant was saving all voice commands—something I quickly turned off after reviewing its privacy options. These small but deliberate actions have given me peace of mind and ensured that my home remains a secure digital space.
Aseem Jha
Founder, Legal Consulting Pro
Set Strong Passwords and Enable 2FA
Ensuring personal data privacy on smart devices at home starts with strong, unique passwords for every device. Many people overlook this step and stick with default settings, which can make it easy for hackers to access their systems. I recall helping a client who had their security cameras compromised because they hadn’t updated their password. Once we set a unique, complex password for each device and enabled two-factor authentication, their system was much safer. It’s a simple fix that makes a big difference.
Another important practice is to regularly update your devices’ firmware. Smart devices often receive security patches to address vulnerabilities. During a security audit for a homeowner, we found their devices running outdated software. After guiding them through the update process, they significantly reduced the risk of unauthorized access. Checking for updates every month or enabling automatic updates can keep your devices protected without much effort.
Finally, be mindful of what you allow your devices to track and share. Many smart devices collect more data than they truly need. A family I worked with had unknowingly allowed their thermostat to track their location at all times. After reviewing the settings, they adjusted the permissions, keeping only the features they needed. Always review privacy settings when setting up new devices, and turn off features that feel intrusive. These small actions can safeguard your home’s privacy.
Elmo Taddeo
CEO, Parachute
Update Devices Regularly and Secure Wi-Fi
I always make sure to update my devices regularly. Keeping software and firmware up-to-date is a simple yet effective way to ensure security patches are applied, reducing vulnerabilities. I also check device settings for privacy options and turn off features I don’t need.
For me, securing my Wi-Fi network is essential. I make sure to use a strong password and enable encryption like WPA3. This way, I can prevent unauthorized access to my connected devices at home.
I’ve learned to control app permissions closely. I go through the list of apps on my devices and only allow necessary permissions, like location or camera access, when required. It’s a small habit, but it makes a big difference in protecting my data.
When setting up new smart devices, I ensure I change the default admin passwords right away. This is a must to avoid the risk of someone exploiting those factory settings to access my data remotely.
Huw Williams
Owner, Man and Van
Create Guest Wi-Fi for Smart Devices
I recommend setting up a separate guest Wi-Fi network for your smart (also called Internet of Things or IoT) devices. This keeps the smart devices separate from the network where your laptop, tablets, mobile phone, etc., are connected. Basically, this means if one of your smart devices is compromised by a hacker, it makes it more difficult for them to get into your other devices (e.g., phone, laptop, etc.). We call this network segmentation in the technology world.
Ken Underhill
Co-Founder, Cyber Life
Regularly Update Firmware and Limit Data
Ensuring personal data privacy on smart devices at home requires a proactive and multilayered approach to security. One of the most effective steps is to regularly update the firmware and software of all devices, including routers, smart speakers, and cameras. Manufacturers often release security patches to address vulnerabilities, and failing to install these updates can leave your devices exposed to cyber threats.
In addition, it’s crucial to limit the amount of personal information shared with smart devices. By reviewing app and device settings, you can disable unnecessary permissions, such as access to location data or contact lists. One practical tip is to use a dedicated, separate Wi-Fi network for smart devices, isolating them from your primary devices like phones and computers. This reduces the risk of cross-contamination if a device is compromised, providing an extra layer of protection for your personal data.
Shehar Yar
CEO, Software House
Use VPN and Alias Information
One way to protect your privacy on smart devices at home is by setting up a VPN on your router. This hides the IP addresses of all your devices, so they can’t reveal your location. For smart devices that require an account, you can use alias information and a masked email address to protect your personal information. Adding a layer of privacy and making it more difficult for businesses to monitor you is easy. You can keep your smart home safe by following these easy steps.
James Wilson
Personal Cybersecurity Expert, My Data Removal
Turn Off Unused Features
First, turn off any feature you don’t use. For instance, if you don’t use voice activation 24/7, then it is best to turn it off.
Second, make sure your device is up to date with the latest security updates.
Gursharan Singh
Co-Founder, WebSpero Solutions
Secure Router and Avoid Internet-Connected Devices
The most important aspect to at-home cybersecurity and privacy is your router. Be sure to secure your WiFi router with 2-factor authentication, and be careful of who you allow to work on your router and connect to your network. As far as privacy on smart devices, the only way that I know how to keep these devices from collecting data is to not connect them to the internet. There may be a community of people who have written code to disable data collection in these devices while still benefiting from their connectivity, but it is much simpler to buy an oven that is not connected to the internet.
Bill Mann
Privacy Expert at Cyber Insider, Cyber Insider
