What Every Woman in Technology Should Know About Protecting IoT Devices

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Understand and manage your IoT ecosystem by knowing your devices and updating their firmware. Use strong, unique passwords and enable 2FA for extra security. Secure your network, adjust device privacy settings, monitor activity, educate on phishing, use a VPN, and engage in community forums for insights and support.

Understand and manage your IoT ecosystem by knowing your devices and updating their firmware. Use strong, unique passwords and enable 2FA for extra security. Secure your network, adjust device privacy settings, monitor activity, educate on phishing, use a VPN, and engage in community forums for insights and support.

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Understand Your IoT Ecosystem

Know what IoT devices are connected in your environment, from smart home gadgets to wearable technology. Understand their functions, connections, and default settings to better manage their security settings and updates.

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Regular Firmware Updates

Always ensure your IoT devices are running the latest firmware versions. Manufacturers often release updates to patch security vulnerabilities. Enable automatic updates if possible to streamline this process.

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Strong Unique Passwords

Replace default passwords with strong, unique passwords for each device. Use a combination of letters, numbers, and special characters, and consider using a password manager to keep track of them all.

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Enable Two-Factor Authentication 2FA

Where available, enable two-factor authentication for an added layer of security. This requires both a password and a secondary code, often sent to your mobile device, to access the account or device.

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Network Security

Secure your home or office network by using a strong, unique password for your Wi-Fi network, employing network encryption (like WPA3), and considering the use of a separate network specifically for your IoT devices.

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Know Your Devices Privacy Settings

Familiarize yourself with the privacy settings of each IoT device. Adjust settings to minimize data sharing and ensure sensitive information is protected. Be critical of what data each device needs to operate effectively.

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Monitor Device Activity

Stay vigilant by monitoring the activity of your IoT devices. Look out for unusual behavior, such as unexplained data transmissions or spikes in network activity, which could indicate a security breach.

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Educate Yourself on Phishing Scams

Be aware of phishing scams designed to trick you into giving away sensitive information. Educate yourself on the signs of phishing emails or messages and the best practices for avoiding these threats.

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Utilize a Secure and Reliable VPN

For added security, especially when using public Wi-Fi networks, consider using a Virtual Private Network (VPN). A VPN can encrypt your internet connection, protecting the data exchanged between your devices and the internet.

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Participate in Community and Forums

Join online communities or forums related to IoT and cybersecurity. Sharing experiences and tips with other women in technology can provide valuable insights and mutual support for protecting your devices and personal information.

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What else to take into account

This section is for sharing any additional examples, stories, or insights that do not fit into previous sections. Is there anything else you'd like to add?

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