For every internet user, being the victim of a cyber crime is a very real reality. When we bring connected devices into our home, however, the risks can grow even higher. Cyber criminals can attack and gain access to any connected device from your smartwatch to your smart fridge. These attacks can spread, especially when default passwords and out-of-date security patches are still in use. Private data can get stolen, financial transactions can be disrupted, and devices can even be held “hostage” until the demanded ransom is paid. The simple truth is that IoT devices are designed and manufactured with convenience and ease-of-access in mind, rather than security.
