The countdown to Hari Raya and family reunion is officially on! Shopping’s done, Biskut Raya is fresh off the oven, Baju Raya is perfectly pressed and slaying, car is serviced and checked! You’ve got everything prepped for Raya but what about the security of your smart home while you are away? 

This festive season, Kaspersky shares basic yet essential security reminders for Malaysians – eight smart tips to help keep your connected home safe while you celebrate the Raya holiday with full festive cheer. 

“Digital security cameras, smart locks and IoT devices have become common features in modern homes, providing us with enhanced convenience, connectivity and greater control over home security.  While many relied on these innovations to safeguard their homes, the technological advancement comes with an increased risk of cyber threats. Hackers can potentially tap into your network, hijack cameras, disable alarms or even control smart doors when you are away,” says Yeo Siang Tiong, General Manager for Southeast Asia at Kaspersky.

TIP #1: Securing Your Smart Home

Your Wi-Fi network is the backbone of your smart home – if it’s not protected, cyber intruders can take control of every device powered with internet. Make sure it is secure by using a strong, unique password and let’s not forget to enable WPA2 or WPA3 encryption. 

TIP #2: Segment Your Network

Kaspersky experts recommend setting up separate network segments for your smart home devices and your daily or work devices, such as smartphones and computers. This can help contain potential security breaches and prevent unauthorised access to data. 

TIP #3: Change Default Passwords on All Devices

Many smart home devices come with default usernames and passwords. Be sure to change these default passwords immediately after setup to prevent others from easily gain access to your Wi-Fi access points, cameras and smart plugs, etc. If creating a strong and unique password is a challenge, consider using a password manager! 

TIP #4: Hide Your Wi-Fi Network 

Is your Wi-Fi network name (SSID) visible to anyone nearby? If it’s a yes, turn the SSID into invisible mode to keep your Wi-Fi off the radar, making your home network harder for to find and compromise.

TIP #5: Keep Your Smart Home Devices and Apps Updated to the Latest Version

Keep all your smart devices and their apps up to date with the latest firmware and software updates. These updates often include security patches that address known vulnerabilities.

TIP #6: Give Your Smart Home a Cybersecurity Shield

A secure smart home starts with a strong network. Consider using a cybersecurity solution that provides real-time protection that monitors and secures your home Wi-Fi network as well as all connected devices – this will help you to stay one step ahead of potential threats. 

Kaspersky Premium’s Smart Home Monitor with Wi-Fi Security Check scans your network for weak security settings or open ports that could allow unauthorised access to your Wi-Fi and smart home devices.

TIP #7: Turn Off Devices You Don’t Need 

Not all smart home devices need to remain connected while you’re away. Turning off or unplugging non-essential devices not only lower your electricity costs but also minimises entry points for cyber threats. Now, that’s a double win! 

TIP #8: Go Slow on Real-Time Updates 

Hari Raya is a time of celebration and it’s natural to want to share joyful moments with family and friends on social media. However, posting real-time updates, especially travelling or away from home, can make your house an easy target. Always be mindful of posting specifics about how long you’ll be away or travel plans that could indicate an empty home. 

SELAMAT HARI RAYA AIDILFITRI & STAY CYBER SAFE

Now, with these simple yet effective recommendations from Kaspersky experts, you can secure your smart home while reducing the risks of cybersecurity threats – even you are miles away enjoying scrumptious rendang and ketupat.

Kaspersky is offering a special Ramadhan promotion with up to 17% off and a GrabGifts voucher for every purchase of Kaspersky Premium – valid until 31 March 2025.  Don’t miss this limited-time offer to protect your digital life today. Click here to find out more: https://www.kaspersky.my/premium

Selamat Hari Raya and safe travels!