Home Security Is Not Cybersecurity
Home Security vs Cybersecurity
Do you know the difference between Home Security and Cybersecurity? If not, this post could make a difference for you and your family!
Home Security includes things like cameras, doors and windows with bars, motion sensors, etc. Cybersecurity is the securing of your digital life; computers, tablets, phones, and ANYTHING that can connect to the internet.
In 1980 the average American household had 1 internet connected device. In 2020 that number was 10+. The number of internet connected devices in 2019 was 7 billion and in 2025 the number is expected to be 21 billion. Corporations expend substantial resources to combat risk associated with the increase in internet connected devices. Unfortunately, average homeowners are not fully aware of the risk OR how to mitigate the risk. As a result, identity theft continues to be an issue. In 2019 survey there were 14 million victims of identity fraud and 33% of US adults had experienced identity theft.
Home security can help reduce the risk of identity theft by preventing home invasions and theft. However, the majority of identity theft is NOT the result of poor home security, but a lack of cybersecurity.
What is cybersecurity?
One simple explanation is Confidentiality, Integrity, and Availability (CIA).
Confidentiality: Ensure that only appropriate people see necessary data. Ex: Your friends should not be able to access your bank information unless you specifically allow them.
Integrity: Ensure the data is not altered. Ex: If there is $1,000 in your bank account, the balance in your banking app should not read $100.
Availability: Ensure the data is available at appropriate times. Ex: You should be able to access your banking app 24/7.
How do you ensure cybersecurity (CIA)?
For starters, apply cybersecurity best practice in the following areas:
Passwords: Use a password manager, never use the same password for multiple sites, use strong passwords, and change passwords regularly.
Software and firmware updates: Configure automated software updates for all internet connected devices. This includes things like televisions, wireless routers, thermostats, etc.
Backups: Identify your sensitive and important data and ensure it is backed up offsite (I.e. with a cloud backup service) to guard against impact of ransomware.
Home Network Design: Configure your home router to have at least 3 networks: primary (for your family computing devices), guest, and other devices (for all internet connected devices that are not computers or smart phones).
If you’re not confident doing the aforementioned, you're not alone. A recent study found 69% of IT professionals didn't know how to update the firmware on their wireless router. If you would like assistance implementing cybersecurity best practice in your home and personal live, please contact us for a home cybersecurity evaluation!