What you need to know about smart home technology

Imagine being able to use your smartphone to check your home’s security cameras while you’re traveling, or adjusting the thermostat before you come home from work. Smart home technology makes all of this not only possible, but easy. At Cushman Insurance, we understand the ways in which smart home technology can give you peace of mind — but it can also come with risks. Here is everything you need to know about making your home “smart.”

What is smart home technology?

When you have a “smart home,” this means that your appliances and devices are interconnected through the internet. You can control them remotely from anywhere with an internet connection using a mobile device, such as a tablet or a smartphone. A home automation system allows you to manage everything from door locks, doorbells, TVs, thermostats, home monitors, lights, and even appliances like your refrigerator.

What are the advantages?

Perhaps the most obvious advantage to using smart home technology is the convenience. Rather than managing lighting, thermostats, and appliances through different devices, homeowners are able to control all of them using a single device. Smart home tech also lets users get notifications about any issues that come up in the home while they’re away. You can also save money in the long-term as a result of lowered energy costs and better efficiency.

Are there risks involved?

Anytime you’re connected to the Internet, you are at risk for a cyber attack, and smart home tech is no different. Security risks and bugs can pose a threat to your security; just as hackers can steal information from your computer, they can also access your home’s devices and appliances if they’re equipped with smart home technology. This means that they can learn your passwords, get financial information, and control devices, even if they’re on the other side of the world.

What security measures can you take?

First, make sure every smart appliance and device in your household with smart home tech has substantial built-in security. Then, you’ll want to use a strong password for your Wi-Fi, use encryption whenever possible, set up two-factor authentication, and only connect trusted devices to your network. It’s also a good idea to set up a guest network for your home for friends and visitors so that your own password can remain private.

At Cushman, our goal is always to help you live more and worry less. Contact an agent at Cushman today if you have more questions about smart home technology and to find out if a cyber insurance policy might be right for you.