We all know that cybercrime is on the rise. It’s estimated that by the end of 2022, cybercrime will cost the world $6 trillion annually. That’s a lot of money! And as more and more of our lives depend on data, the risk of being a victim of cybercrime increases. One of the most vulnerable targets for criminals is your home network. If you want to keep your data (and your family) safe, it’s important to prevent security breaches at home. In this article, we’ll discuss some tips for keeping your home network secure. Let’s get to the list.
Invest in a Home Security System
One of the best solutions for keeping your home safe is to install a home security system. A home security system will alert you (and the authorities) if someone breaks into your house. As highlighted by the team behind Smith Thompson, a fully equipped home security comes with security sensors, fire detection, cameras, smart locks, and a smart home automation system to ensure the safety of your home. Nowadays you can also find security systems that come with facial recognition, which is an extra layer of protection.
There are so many factors that you need to consider when choosing a home security system. Some of these factors include the size of your home, your budget, the features that you need, and whether you want a do-it-yourself or professional installation. But, in general, you want to look for a system that is easy to install and use, has comprehensive coverage, and comes with a monitoring service. Do some research and find the best home security system for your needs.
Upgrade Your Door Locks
If you want to keep your home safe, upgrading your door locks is important. As criminals become more sophisticated, the regular door locks that you can buy at the hardware store are no longer good enough. You need to invest in high-quality deadbolts and smart locks.
When choosing a deadbolt, look for one that is made of high-quality materials (such as solid brass or steel) and has a hardened steel insert. You also want to make sure that the deadbolt has a minimum of an ANSI Grade-II certification. As for smart locks, there are many different types on the market, so do some research to find one that fits your needs. Ensure to find one that is compatible with your home automation system (if you have one), so you can control it remotely.
Change Your Wi-Fi Password Regularly
Your home Wi-Fi network is another vulnerable target for criminals. If someone gains access to your Wi-Fi network, they can spy on your data usage, steal your personal information, and even launch attacks on other devices on the network. That’s why it’s important to change your Wi-Fi password regularly.
Ideally, you should be changing your password every 30 days. But, if that’s not possible, try to change it at least every three months. When creating a new password, make sure to use letters, numbers, and symbols. And avoid words like “password” or your street address. For instance, you could use a phrase like “Ilovemydog123!” as your password.
Install Firewalls and Anti-Virus Software
Another way to keep your home network safe is to install firewalls and anti-virus software. A firewall is a piece of hardware or software that helps to protect your network from unauthorized access. And anti-virus software helps to protect your devices from malware and other malicious software.
When choosing a firewall, you want to find one that is compatible with your router and provides comprehensive coverage. As for anti-virus software, there are many different types on the market. So, do some research to find one that fits your needs. If possible, find one that includes real-time protection, so your devices are always protected.
Install Outdoor Lighting
Installing outdoor lighting is a great way to deter criminals from breaking into your home. Criminals are less likely to target a well-lit homestead. So, by installing outdoor lighting, you can make your home less of a target. Ensure that you have lights at all corners of your house, especially near any potential entry points.
You can choose to install traditional light bulbs or LED lights. But, if you want to save on energy costs, then LED lights are the way to go. You can also find solar-powered lights, a great option if you don’t want to run wires to your house. Solar lighting is even cheaper and easier to install than traditional lighting.
Lock Your Garage
Your garage is another vulnerable entry point for criminals. If your garage is attached to your house, it’s important to ensure it is properly secured. Ensure that all doors and windows leading into the garage are locked. You might also want to consider installing a security system in your garage.
If you have a detached garage, you still need to ensure it is properly secured. But, you have a few more options when it comes to securing a detached garage. For instance, you could install a fence around the garage’s perimeter. Or, you could install motion-activated lights to deter criminals.
Be Smart About Social Media
In today’s world, social media is a part of everyday life. But, you need to be smart about what you share on social media. For instance, you shouldn’t post pictures of your new home theater system or big-screen TV on social media. Doing so could make your home a target for criminals.
You should also avoid posting pictures of yourself on vacation or away from home for an extended period of time. If criminals know you’re not home, they might target your house. Of course, you don’t have to avoid social media altogether. Just be smart about what you share and who you share it with.
Keep Your Valuables Hidden
Last but not least, it’s important to keep your valuables hidden. If criminals can see your valuables through a window, they might be tempted to break into your home. So, make sure to keep all of your valuables out of sight.
You should also consider investing in a safe. A safe is a great way to keep your valuables hidden and protected. If you have many valuable items, you might even want to consider installing a home security system. A home security system will help to protect your valuables and deter criminals from breaking into your home.
By following the tips above, you can help to prevent security breaches at home. By taking steps such as investing in a home security system, upgrading your door locks, upgrading your internet devices, and being smart about social media, you can make your home a much less attractive target for criminals. So, take action today to help keep your home and family safe.
