UAE Cyber Security Council Warns: 70% of Smart Home Devices Vulnerable to Cyberattacks

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is moving forward with its cyber defense efforts as risks connected to smart home devices have increased. Therefore, the UAE Cyber Security Council (CSC) has warned that 70 percent of smart home devices vulnerable to cyberattacks. 

Rising Cybersecurity Threats in Smart Homes

The popularity of voice assistants, surveillance cameras, smart lighting, and air conditioning systems is increasing at an immense rate. So, hackers are finding more opportunities to destroy weak device protections. However, it is important to note that many vulnerabilities come from poor security awareness, reliance on default settings, and risky practices by users.

The CSC highlighted that the following tricks could expose entire households to risk:

• leaving voice assistants permanently active
• Connecting devices to unsecured networks
• Sharing the main Wi-Fi password with guests

Once breached, hackers can get remote access to devices, monitor activities, and manipulate home devices. 

Baby Monitors Among the Most Exposed

These monitors are often common in the UAE  households. Thus, the council has released a special warning about the baby monitors. If hacked, cyber criminals could use it to record conversations and track movement inside homes. On top of that, they can even directly communicate with children and family members through this device. 

CSC’s Cyber Safety Recommendations for securing smart home devices vulnerable to cyberattacks

It is true that these devices could be hacked easily. Still, there are some easy methods for protecting them from cyber threats. Hence, the council has requested residents to follow the following tips:

• Use strong, unique passwords for all smart devices.
• Update systems and software regularly to patch vulnerabilities.
• Centralize control of devices through a single, secure hub.
• Disable voice assistants when not in active use.
• Enable built-in security and privacy settings.
• Separate smart device networks from the main household Wi-Fi.

These steps will help you reduce the chance of a cyber intrusion because attackers are now increasingly targeting homes where digital adoption is growing rapidly. 

“Cyber Pulse” Awareness Campaign

The Cyber Security Council is dedicated this week to educating families and residents about smart home cybersecurity as a part of the “Cyber Pulse” Initiative.  Moreover, this campaign is focusing on raising awareness related to the system updates, device configurations, and the importance of secure digital practices to protect households.

The UAE is strengthening its position as a leader in digital security and awareness. Moreover, you can ensure that the convenience of smart technology does not risk your safety and privacy. 

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