Smart home is convenient: voice control, automation, remote access. But each connected device is a potential vulnerability. In 2026, IoT attacks have become one of the main security concerns.
Why IoT Is Dangerous
Weak Manufacturer Protection
Most IoT devices are developed with priority on functionality, not security.
Typical problems:
- Default passwords (admin/admin)
- No encryption
- Rare or no updates
- Data transmitted in plain text
Always Connected
IoT devices work 24/7 and are always online. This gives attackers unlimited time to attack.
Access to Internal Network
A compromised device becomes an entry point to the entire home network: computers, phones, NAS.
Vulnerable Devices
IP Cameras and Baby Monitors
Risks:
- Unauthorized video access
- Used for surveillance
- Participation in botnets
Real cases:
- Hacked cameras streamed on sites like Shodan
- Baby monitors used to scare children
- Cameras participated in DDoS attacks (Mirai)
Smart Speakers
Risks:
- Constant listening
- Unauthorized purchases
- Voice recording leaks
What they collect:
- Voice commands and responses
- Environment information
- Habit data
Smart TVs
Risks:
- Built-in cameras and microphones
- Viewing tracking
- Personalized advertising
Thermostats and Sensors
Risks:
- Information about home presence
- Temperature manipulation
- Access to other smart home systems
Smart Locks
Risks:
- Unauthorized home access
- Entry/exit logging
- Dependence on cloud services
Robot Vacuums
Risks:
- Room maps
- Navigation cameras
- Voice control microphones
Typical Attacks
Botnets
Infected devices unite into a network for DDoS attacks. Example - Mirai: millions of cameras and routers attacked major websites.
Cryptomining
Device computing power used for cryptocurrency mining. Device slows down, wears out faster.
Espionage
Access to cameras, microphones, presence data. Used for surveillance, blackmail, theft planning.
Entry Point
Through a vulnerable IoT device, attacker enters the network and attacks computers, phones, NAS.
Ransomware
Data encryption on NAS, threats to publish camera recordings.
Protection Methods
Network Segmentation
Isolate IoT devices from the main network.
How to implement:
-
Guest network: simplest method
- Create separate WiFi for IoT
- Enable client isolation
- IoT can’t see main devices
-
VLAN: for advanced users
- Separation at router level
- Full control of traffic between segments
- Requires router support
| Segment | Devices | Internet Access | Access to Other Segments |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main network | PC, phones | Yes | Yes |
| IoT | Cameras, speakers | Limited | No |
| Guest | Guests | Yes | No |
Change Default Passwords
Mandatory:
- Device administrator password
- WiFi password (if device creates its own network)
- Cloud account password
Requirements:
- Minimum 12 characters
- Unique for each device
- Store in password manager
Disable Unnecessary Features
| Feature | Why Disable |
|---|---|
| UPnP | Automatically opens ports |
| Remote access | If not using - close it |
| Voice control | If not needed - disable microphone |
| Cloud storage | Use local if possible |
Firmware Updates
- Enable automatic updates
- Check manually monthly
- If manufacturer ended support - replace device
Traffic Monitoring
Watch for suspicious activity:
- Unusual outgoing connections
- High traffic volume during off-hours
- Connections to strange IP addresses
Tools:
- Built-in router features
- Pi-hole for DNS monitoring
- Specialized solutions (Fingbox, Firewalla)
Router-Level Protection
VPN on Router
All IoT device traffic goes through VPN:
- Hidden from ISP
- Protected from external attacks
- Single management point
Good for: Cameras that transmit video to cloud.
DNS Filtering
Block suspicious domains at DNS level:
- NextDNS
- Pi-hole
- AdGuard Home
Firewall Rules
Limit IoT device access:
- Only to necessary servers
- Block access to local network
- Log suspicious attempts
Choosing Secure Devices
What to Look For
| Criterion | Good Sign | Bad Sign |
|---|---|---|
| Updates | Regular, automatic | None |
| Encryption | End-to-end | None or unknown |
| Local operation | Works without cloud | Cloud-only |
| Authentication | 2FA, complex passwords | Password only |
| Privacy | Clear policy | Data collection |
Brands with Good Reputation
- Apple (HomeKit) - strict partner requirements
- Google Nest - regular updates
- Amazon Ring - improved security after scandals
What to Avoid
- No-name devices from AliExpress
- Devices without updates for over a year
- Products from companies with breach history
Smart Home Security Checklist
When Buying
- Check manufacturer reputation
- Learn update policy
- Evaluate cloud dependency necessity
When Installing
- Change default password
- Connect to isolated network
- Disable unnecessary features
- Enable auto-updates
Regularly
- Check for updates
- Monitor network activity
- Review app permissions
- Remove unused devices
What to Do If Compromised
- Disconnect device from network
- Factory reset
- Update firmware to latest version
- Change all passwords (device, cloud, WiFi)
- Check other devices on network
- If outdated - replace
Summary
Smart home requires smart approach to security. Network isolation, password changes, regular updates - basic measures that protect against most attacks.
Remember: every connected device is a potential vulnerability. Only connect what you really need.
Tainet on router protects all smart home traffic, including IoT devices without native VPN support.
