As consumers move deeper into the world of the ‘Internet of Things’, are they creating security problems, or just opening themselves up to more? Ten years ago, our only security concern was protecting our home computers. Five years ago, we had to worry about protecting our smart phones. Now, we have to worry about our wearable devices, cars and even home appliances. The notion of ‘more devices, more problems’ is definitely a growing concern amongst technologists and security folk around the world. More devices, equals more opportunities for would-be attackers to identify and exploit vulnerabilities causing disruption within systems and networks.

Avoiding these security concerns can be easier than one would think, and it all starts before the device is purchased. When it comes to IoT devices, reputable devices that are associated with known brands give consumers a sense of security and they can rely on the vendor to provide support, updates and security patches if required. Low-cost brands should be avoided at all costs and have often been referred to as ‘ticking time bombs’ that are sitting on your network. This is mainly due to security flaws, or devices simply made obsolete due to lack of vendor support.

It is expected by 2020 that the number of IoT connected devices worldwide will reach a staggering 30 billion, many of which, are being created by companies entering the IoT market for the first time. Would you put your workplace or family at risk with a non-reputable or cheap device?