Refrigerators, smart TVs, or washing machines connected to Wi-Fi network for convenience also increase your chances of being hacked. Smart devices tend to be far more vulnerable than computers since as they are not updated frequently. If hackers obtain access to one smart device, they can easily hack into any or all of the devices on your network, gaining access to your data, spreading malware, and carrying out criminal actions without your knowledge. Connecting your smart devices to a guest network will give you an additional security layer and keep sensitive information on your computer safe.
To help protect your computer, it is recommended you create a separate guest Wi-Fi network for all your smart devices and guests to connect to. Most Wi-Fi routers allow you to create a guest network. In most cases, you can type your router’s IP address (192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1) to get to the configuration. Your owner’s manual will provide additional information on how to do this. Once this is completed, enter your administrator username and password. If this password is still the original, default password, it is suggested you change it to a more secure password. In the router settings, find “allow guest network” or “guest network.” Name your new guest network and set a password for it. Select WPA2 encryption type. If your router does not have the option to setup a guest network, a new router is recommended in order to improve security and decrease vulnerability.
Contact Mike Wilson at mikewilson1@cwidaho.cc or 208.562.3193 with questions or for more information, and stay tuned for more tips and information on cybersecurity awareness in future issues of Bert’s Alerts.