Cybersecurity experts have issued a major warning to people who received “smart” devices this Christmas, drawing attention to the growing risks associated with internet-connected gadgets like smart speakers, appliances, and home assistants. These gadgets ranging from voice-activated devices to connected refrigerators and cameras can expose users to new online threats if they are not properly secured right from the start.
With the festive season seeing many of these devices gifted and set up in households around the world, the alert comes at a time when attackers are increasingly targeting vulnerable devices. Experts caution that without proper security measures, newly connected technology could become an easy entry point for hackers seeking access to personal data, network systems, or even financial information.
Why Smart Devices Are Targeted
Connected devices — often referred to as the Internet of Things (IoT) — serve useful functions but also introduce security weaknesses if they are not protected. Cybersecurity specialists have found that many smart home systems are exposed to frequent attacks, with some reports suggesting that the average household faces dozens of such attempted intrusions every day. These attacks can involve botnets and other tools that exploit weak passwords, insecure connections, or outdated firmware. In some cases, attackers do not need sophisticated techniques to gain control. Devices with default login credentials or those that have never been updated with the latest security patches are especially vulnerable. Once an attacker gains access to one device, they can potentially move laterally across a home network and compromise other connected systems. This can lead to data theft, privacy breaches, abnormal behaviour on devices, or unauthorized control of home systems.
Examples of Real-World Risks
Warnings from law enforcement agencies have highlighted that millions of smart electronics — including TVs, streaming set-top boxes, tablets, and routers — have been compromised by malware before users even power them on. Certain malware strains, for instance, turn these devices into parts of botnets that carry out wider cybercrime operations, making them both a danger to owners and tools for attackers to further their campaigns. Additionally, security vulnerabilities in companion apps, Bluetooth integrations, and poor encryption practices can expose private activity and personal information. Devices like baby monitors, security cameras, and AI-connected toys have been shown in several investigations to be at risk of unwanted access, sometimes capturing sensitive audio or video without users realizing.
Simple Steps to Protect Your Devices
Experts emphasize that setting up new devices with basic security precautions can dramatically reduce the likelihood of being targeted. Recommended practices include:
- Change Default Passwords: First thing after setup, replace manufacturer passwords with strong, unique passphrases.
- Enable Automatic Updates: Keeping systems up to date ensures that known vulnerabilities are patched promptly.
- Use Two-Factor Authentication: Adding another layer of authentication helps prevent unauthorized logins.
- Separate Networks: If possible, place IoT devices on their own Wi-Fi network to limit access to primary personal devices.
- Review Privacy Settings: Check which data the device collects and adjust settings to minimise information sharing. Authorities and cybersecurity organisations also encourage users to follow official guidance issued by national cyber safety agencies, which outline additional steps and best practices for smart device security.
Balancing Convenience and Security
The convenience of smart tech — from hands-free voice commands to remote home monitoring — is undeniable. Yet these benefits come with responsibilities. As households adopt more connected gadgets during festive seasons and beyond, staying informed and proactive about security is essential. Proper setup and ongoing vigilance can make the difference between enjoying holiday tech safely and inadvertently inviting cyber threats into your home.
