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for potential security and privacy issues before buying. See if reviews or news articles have identified security or privacy issues. Check whether you can make your device more secure by changing the password and adjusting the privacy settings. Confirm if the device receives regular software updates so any security vulnerabilities can be fixed.
MAKE
strong, unique passwords for each device. Generic default passwords can be easily identified and allow attackers to gain access. Set strong, unique passwords for each device, service and your home router. The longer the password the better; mix upper and lower case letters, numbers, and special characters to increase the strength.
ADJUST
settings for maximum security and privacy. Many devices and services come with minimal security protection by default and collect significant amounts of important information about you - so change your settings for greater security and privacy. Also plan to reset your device regularly.
REGULARLY
update software. If the device or app has an auto-update feature, turn it on. Find out how to check for software updates for each device and do it once a month. Most companies will release updates when they patch security vulnerabilities. Also accept updates for the apps on your mobile phone that control your device.
TURN OFF
features you don't need and the device when not in use. Many features on your device can continue to monitor you even when you don’t expect or need them to. To avoid this, disable cameras, microphones, or location tracking apps when you are not actively using them.
