- Many devices allow synchronisation of files between the storage on the device and online storage (often referred to as ‘the cloud’) linked to an online account. This means that Important personal data, photos and other content might be stored both online and also locally on a device.
- Devices with out of date apps and older operating systems may be more vulnerable than devices kept fully up to date. Criminals will often exploit weaknesses in app/operating system code in order to gain access and companies will update their apps to fix these weaknesses. If an app hasn’t been updated, then these weaknesses may still be present and a device may be more vulnerable.
- Older devices may not automatically update and may require a user to manually update them. Over time, older devices may no longer be supported by manufacturers so new updates aren’t available and the device becomes more vulnerable.
- If a device is lost or stolen and is not secured with a password, PIN or other form of security (such as fingerprint or face recognition) then someone can access the personal data stored on that device, as well as accounts containing personal data that remain permanently logged in on the device, such as social networking apps.
- Unauthorised access to your home WiFi could compromise the security of any of the devices on the network. Sometimes access is gained by exploiting security vulnerabilities in less sophisticated devices such as WiFi enabled household appliances and baby monitors. Older devices that have not received security updates may also compromise the security of the network.
Advice:
- Work with your family to secure all devices with some form of security; ideally a PIN or password. Don’t forget to set strong passwords where possible on other connected devices on your home network. Some devices (particularly older ones) may have no set password or may have a default username and password (e.g. A username of ‘admin’ and a password of ‘changeme’).
- Ensure devices are protected by anti-virus and anti-malware solutions. Keep this software regularly updated and schedule regular scans. Your home internet router may also offer security features such as antivirus or firewall protection to help protect the devices on the network.
- Check regularly for firmware updates for internet connected devices. You should install these as soon as they become available as they will often fix security vulnerabilities. Most modern connected devices can be set to automatically check for updates and alert you when they become available.
- Help your child understand the importance of keeping apps and operating systems on devices up to date. Updates should be installed whenever they are prompted.
- Losing important files such as precious family photos can be very upsetting. It is a wise idea to create and schedule backups on the most important devices in your home. In the event that the device is lost/stolen or damaged (physically or by malware), these backups can be used to restore valuable files and save time in setting up and installing apps on a replacement device.