Kaspersky researchers have published a global survey that explores key digital habits and use of smart home devices. The market, which includes some segments such as smart security systems and smart locks, is expected to reach $2030 billion and $106.3 billion, respectively, by 13.1. In its latest report on this topic, Kaspersky reveals how the expansion of the use of these smart devices is affecting users' attitudes towards security and protection issues.
A new Kaspersky survey investigating the use of smart home devices and attitudes towards their security reveals that almost half (48 percent) of consumers who own this equipment feel responsible for cybersecurity. Millennials, aged 25-34, appear to be the generation that attaches the most importance to the protection of smart devices in their homes.
“Users in Turkey have security concerns”
Fear of being cyber-attacked. creates a willingness to accept the responsibility of protecting smart devices in the home. According to the survey, more than half (57 percent) of users in Turkey say they are worried about their home network being hacked and their Wi-Fi router or internet-connected camera system spying on them. Also, about a quarter of users in Turkey admit that they are very concerned about security and protection. Therefore, 22 percent of monitoring/security system users say they are “very concerned” about the security and protection of their smart devices. It is also seen that 60 percent are either “concerned” or “somewhat worried”.
“Smart lightings are at the end of the list”
The list of smart devices of concern also includes internet-connected cameras and smart doors and locks to monitor babies and pets; 22 percent and 25 percent say their safety is a “very worrying issue” for them.
Among the devices that users have the least problems with are smart cleaning devices such as vacuum cleaners connected to the internet. 36 percent of users say their security is none of their concern. At the bottom of the list, climate control systems (26 percent) and smart lighting (39 percent) are seen.
Marina Titova, Vice President of Marketing for Consumer Products at Kaspersky, said: “As the adoption of smart devices in society increases, we are seeing users pay more attention to security aspects and strive to ensure a seamless experience while establishing long-term relationships with their devices. Good digital habits seem to take shape more naturally in millennials. It also shows that in the future, IoT device manufacturers and internet service providers can support their work by placing greater emphasis on cybersecurity, possibly integrating cybersecurity features into their offerings, to meet consumer expectations and provide them with the desired level of protection.” made his comment.
To keep all smart devices safe and protected, Kaspersky experts recommend the following tips:
“It is not safe to buy second-hand smart home devices. Firmware may have been modified by previous owners to give a remote attacker full control over users' smart home ecosystems.
It is also important not to often forget to change the default password. Use a solid and complex one instead and you can update it regularly.
You can keep your network secure by keeping serial numbers, IP addresses and other sensitive information private. Also, do not share users' smart devices on social networks
A reliable security solution will also be of great help in securing and protecting the entire smart home ecosystem.
Once you've decided on a particular app or device, make sure you're familiar with updates and discovering vulnerabilities. Install all updates released by the developers in a timely manner.”