Smart devices are electronic items that connect to the internet (or to your home network) and are able to respond to their environment and users. They can do this using various wireless protocols like Wi-Fi, ZigBee, Z-Wave, and Bluetooth Low Energy. They can also use a variety of different software platforms to interact with each other and provide a range of functionality.
They are often referred to as Everyware or the Internet of Things (IoT), and they have the potential to collect and send a wide range of data about a user or their environment. This data can be used for a wide range of purposes, including machine learning, analytics, and personalization.
However, they are not without their risks. The growing number of smart devices means that cyber attacks against them are increasing in both frequency and severity. This article reviews the current state of knowledge about digital harms associated with smart devices and offers guidance on how to avoid these.
The main risk is that criminals may be able to use smart devices to gain access to your private information or carry out malicious actions on your behalf. You should take steps to keep your devices secure, for example by changing the default username and password on a device, or disabling features that you don’t want to use. It is also important to keep your devices updated, as manufacturers release updates to fix bugs or security issues that could put your privacy or devices at risk.
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