The government is cautioning households about the increased risk of cyber attacks by hackers during the post-Christmas period. Many people may have received smart devices as Christmas gifts, adding to the already extensive list of internet-connected electronics in UK homes. These devices range from smart speakers, fitness trackers, and security cameras to modern appliances like fridges, thermostats, kettles, washing machines, and toys.
The National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC), part of GCHQ, has highlighted the vulnerability of insecure devices, which could be exploited by criminals to infiltrate a household’s network or launch cyber attacks. Recent studies on connected homes revealed that these devices face an average of 10 attacks per day, with security measures successfully blocking around 1,736 threats every minute.
In light of these risks, the government is urging households to take a few minutes to enhance security measures such as setting up two-step verification on new device accounts and enabling automatic updates. Baroness Lloyd, the Cyber Security Minister, emphasized the importance of securing smart devices to safeguard families during the holiday season and create lasting memories.
Jonathon Ellison, NCSC director for national resilience, advised users to prioritize the security setup of new smart devices to protect both their homes and personal information. By following NCSC’s recommendations for smart device usage and implementing two-step verification for critical accounts, individuals can enhance their cybersecurity.
The UK government asserts its leadership in safeguarding families from cyber threats, citing the Product Security and Telecommunications Infrastructure regulations that require all smart devices sold in the UK to meet basic security standards, including the absence of default or easily guessable passwords.
Essential steps for festive security include ensuring the proper setup and security of smart devices to mitigate potential risks.