Finding Security in the Age of Smart Homes
Our homes, havens of comfort and sanctuary, are also fortresses against the outside world. We all yearn for a sense of security, a haven where anxieties fade and vulnerability retreats. But in the digital age, this desire for safety collides with the alluring convenience of smart home technology.
A recent ZDNET article in the US explored this very dichotomy. While 53% of 800 Americans surveyed expressed the desire for both privacy and security in their homes, concerns about data breaches and cyberattacks also lingered. As one interviewee put it, "I love the idea of controlling things from my phone, but the thought of someone else being able to do the same gives me the creeps."
Here in Australia, the sentiment echoes. A 2021 ACCC report references a survey by Telsyte - “69% of Australian households have at least one smart home device, with an average of five devices per household”, with the report also stating that while convenience and security are key drivers of adoption, compatibility and data privacy remain top concerns for consumers.
At Homeable, we work daily with people with disabilities seeking independence and peace of mind within their homes. During the consultation process, one of the first questions we ask is what factors they prioritise – and unsurprisingly, 100% pick security and privacy, on par with a desire for autonomy. Whether living solo or with support, the want for a secure home remains paramount.
And what fuels this yearning for security? Often, it's the simple things - knowing who's at the door tops the list of concerns, regardless of the level of care required. Whether relying on occasional support or full-time assistance, the ability to control who enters feels paramount.
But here's the good news: smart home technology can actually become a powerful ally in this quest for home security. We talk about this more in our recent webinar, ‘Enhancing Client Safety Through Smart Home Technology’, and discuss our recommended selection of smart devices for different use cases. Some of these include:
Video doorbells and smart locks: These devices provide the ability to see and remotely talk to anyone approaching the door, whether expected or not.
Cameras and sensors: Cameras not only offer real-time surveillance but can also trigger automated responses, like turning on lights or sending alerts to caregivers.
Voice assistants: These systems allow for quick, hands-free commands or even calls for help.
Smart home security in action
Let’s explore a real-life example. Kerry, a 45-year-old living with PTSD, anxiety, and depression, found leaving her home uneasy. Kerry’s goals were to feel comfortable when she did leave the house, have the ability to see who was at the front door and improve her overall safety within the home.
To address these concerns, Homeable designed a custom solution. We installed a video doorbell and three interconnected smart cameras strategically placed around her home. Previously, clunky wired cameras on a different system offered limited functionality. Now, through one seamless phone app, Kerry could remotely view live feeds, talk to visitors through the doorbell, and receive alerts for any activity.
The impact was huge. Kerry's ability to remotely monitor her home and confidently interact with visitors through the app significantly reduced her anxiety. Feeling secure, she ventured out more, reconnecting with her community and social life.
Protecting your data: what to consider when choosing smart home devices
Cybersecurity and data privacy can hold people back from embracing the benefits of smart home technology. There are however a few important aspects that will provide you added security and confidence:
Encryption: Look for devices with 256-bit AES encryption, the industry standard for secure data transmission. This scrambles your data into an unreadable format, protecting it from prying eyes even if intercepted.
Two-factor authentication (2FA): Beyond passwords, 2FA requires an additional verification step, like a code sent to your phone, to access your devices. This significantly reduces the risk of unauthorised access, even if your password is compromised.
Strong passwords: Ditch the dictionary words and birthdays! Use long, unique passwords with a mix of upper and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols. If you have several devices and respective passwords, consider a password manager like Lastpass.
Beyond technical controls:
Network security: Use a strong Wi-Fi password and consider a guest network for occasional visitors. A VPN adds an extra layer of encryption for remote access.
Be mindful of what you share: Avoid connecting sensitive devices like smart cameras to public Wi-Fi networks. Be cautious about the information you share through voice assistants and smart speakers.
Stay informed: Keep yourself updated on the latest cybersecurity threats and best practices. We'll be your partner in staying vigilant and informed.
Additionally, at Homeable, we prioritise education and transparency. That's why we empower you with knowledge: comprehensive training on navigating settings, understanding data usage, and mastering the security features of your chosen devices. This confidence lets you make informed decisions about your data and ensures you're always in control.
Ultimately, smart home technology isn't about turning your home into a robotic fortress; it's about empowering individuals to feel safe and independent within it. At Homeable, we're committed to helping you find the perfect balance, guiding you through the world of smart technology and ensuring it serves your unique needs for security and independence.
