A home security system is one of your best protections against burglars and intruders. This, however, doesn’t mean that they are completely impenetrable. Like most products of technology, home security systems are also vulnerable to hacking, especially if there are no precautions taken.

To make sure your home stays safe and protected against clever hackers, here are some of the things you can do to prevent unauthorized access toyour system.

Change your passwords

This might sound too basic but, the truth is, a lot of people forget to change their devices’ default passwords. And with how easy it is to make a quick search online, hackers can effortlessly take control of those devices.

To make sure that doesn’t happen, always change the default password and username of any new device you’re bringing home. Use strong passwords that are unrelated to any of your personal data, like your birthday or license number. Combine numbers and symbols and use upper and lower cases for the letters.

Apart from changing default passwords, you also need to replace your codes frequently. You can change them every three months or whenever you feel like they are compromised.

Another good tip is to enable multi-factor authentication. It can be a one-time code sent to your mobile phone or entering an additional security key. Thumb prints and eye scan are great options, too.

Update your firmwares regularly

Updates aren’t just necessary in fixing glitches and bugs. They are also necessary if you want to boost your system’s protection against newer security threats. In updating, however, it is necessary that you check its authenticity first. There are tons of malware and apps that can trick you into thinking that what you are downloading is legit.

Hide your devices

Hackers generally don’t take long when they are hacking a system. In most cases, they only need a few seconds to tamper devices. Since you’ll never know when people with bad intentions will enter your home, it’s a good idea to take one step ahead of hackers and hide your devices in areas where they won’t easily be seen.

Don’t use public Wi-Fi

As much as possible, do not attempt to connect to your home’s automation and security system if you know you are using an unsecured connection. This includes public Wi-Fi connections.

Although they are convenient and available most of the time, they can actually make you vulnerable to hackers. If you really need to check on your system, use your mobile data or find a reliable and secure network you can connect to for a quick check-up.

Secure your phone

If your home security system can be remotely controlled through an app in your smart phone, make sure your phone is protected by a password. You can also consider installing a tracking app, just in case it gets lost or stolen.

Use separate networks at home

This might sound like a lot of work but, with the benefits and peace of mind you’ll get from this one, it will surely be worth it. If you build and use a separate network for your home security system, hackers won’t easily get access to your personal data.

Buy your system from a trusted brand

Buying your system or sensors from your local appliance store might sound like a very practical move. Unfortunately, although they won’t burn holes in your wallet, cheap security devices aren’t that strong against hackers. They don’t allow passwords to be reset and, in some cases, might not even have passwords at all.

Apart from cheap systems, it’s best to stay away from second-hand devices, too. Although they are priced really low, you’ll never know how safe they are, unless you personally know and trust the people selling them.

Only buy from companies who have been in the business for several years. The big names in the industry have worked so hard to establish their brand and earn the loyalty of their customers.

Limit the devices that can access your network

For your safety and security, your own mobile devices, computer and tablets should be the only devices that can connect to your network. Be sure to turn off guest network and sharing.

Check your camera logs

Always make it a habit to check your system’s IP history. This way, you’ll know if someone unauthorized has been successful or trying to gain access to your network. If there is any unidentified or unknown IP address, better check with your security provider so you’ll know what to do next.

In addition to checking logs, you should also check the actual device. Some cameras have LED lights that turn on whenever someone is viewing them. Another tip is to turn off the cameras or cover their lenses when you’re inside the house.

Author’s Bio:

Rose Cabrera is a freelance writer who specializes in security systems and safety tips and tricks. Top Security Review Ratings reflect how passionate she is in ensuring that her readers only get to read honest and truthful reviews.