As an online business owner, you need all the help you can get. Handling everything from your computer can be overwhelming sometimes, not to mention the packing-labeling-sending process. IoT devices can come in handy, especially if you also manufacture (or store) the actual products in your home. How can you be sure that you don’t turn this help into a potential threat for your business?
Only buy original products
On international websites you can find plenty of products that are identical replicas to what you would buy from the brand store. They do have a significantly smaller price, but they are also accompanied by many risks. No matter how good the product claims to be, for sure they do not function in the same way as the original as they don’t have the original software or hardware. Besides, these eCommerce products can easily be victims of hackers as their security measurements are weak to say the most.
Don’t give anyone your access credentials
This should go without saying, but here it is: even if it’s just a friend visiting and they want to try your new accessories, don’t give away your credentials. On a similar note, don’t write them down anywhere, even if you think it’s safe. If you are a victim of a cyber-attack, any device can be vulnerable including the password-protected apps in your phone. Of course, writing them down on paper should also be out of discussion.
Use a digital certificate
Even the best password or code can be hacked, and why take this risk when you do something that can prevent it? There is plenty of information online on how to use your digital certificate and how this can change the way you see online security. Make sure that everyone who has access to your IoT devices understands how and why this is necessary.
Don’t connect them to anyone else’s Wi-Fi network
It does not matter if your Internet is down and your neighbor is kind enough to let you use their Wi-fi, or if you just moved and you get free Internet from your building until you get your own. You should never connect your devices to a public (or any beside yours) Wi-Fi network, as this makes them vulnerable. While some devices might not be as dangerous when accessed by someone else (like your humidifier), imagine someone else gets access to your baby’s monitor or the printer that you use for your labels.
Don’t get them fixed in an unauthorized place
When it comes to your security or the safety of your client’s details, no measure is too extreme. Even if your device needs just a quick little fix, don’t take it to an unauthorized place. If someone wants to make adjustments that would allow them to access your data or private network, they can easily do so if they have a few hours to work on your device. It is always recommended to go for popular shops that are not only safer, but also offer warranty for their work.
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