Essential Steps to Secure Your Smart Home After Moving In

Understanding Smart Home Security Risks

Transitioning to a new living space can be overwhelming, and security shouldn't add to the stress. Beyond simply changing locks, it’s crucial to consider the smart home technology that might still be connected to former homeowners. Devices such as cameras, door locks, and smart thermostats could still be under the prior owner's control.

Checking Access to Smart Devices

Identifying whether old owners still have access isn't straightforward since devices usually don't display this information. According to Kurtis Baron, a security expert at Echo Secure, it's safer to assume that previous owners can still connect to these systems.

Nathan Connell, the founder of Future Technology, suggests registering each smart device through its corresponding app. If the application indicates that it's owned by someone else, you know that the previous owner’s account is still active. For instance, devices from Ring come with an ownership transfer protocol that enables new homeowners to reclaim control.

Devices Needing Resetting

Experts recommend resetting all smart devices inherited from previous owners. This includes security cameras, smart locks, alarms, and even appliances connected to your network. The Federal Trade Commission points out that some smart devices, like light bulbs or security systems, may not be easily recognizable.

It’s essential to follow the manufacturer's guidelines for removing old accounts and performing a factory reset on each device. For example, Google's Nest devices require the previous owner to remove them before you can register them under your own account.

Addressing Security Codes and Your Router

In addition to devices, it’s crucial to update any old access codes, especially for keypad locks and alarm systems, warns Connell. New homeowners should ensure they remove any old PINs and create new ones, eliminating any shared guest access.

Your internet router is another area needing careful attention. As Baron mentions, the router plays a vital role in maintaining privacy within the Internet of Things (IoT). It's wise to invest in a new router rather than relying on one from the previous owner. Be sure to set a new Wi-Fi password and inspect the device for any unfamiliar connections.

When to Replace Old Devices

Consider replacing older smart devices that are no longer receiving security updates or cannot be reset completely. While some devices may allow ownership transfer, those that are outdated could jeopardize your home security.

Questions to Ask Before Closing

Before finalizing your home purchase, ask the sellers for a comprehensive list of all smart devices included in the sale. This list should come with operational manuals, hub details, and account transfer information. It’s also a good practice to confirm that sellers have removed their accounts and prohibited access to anyone previously authorized.

Incorporating a clause in the closing documentation, which ensures that sellers have disconnected their accounts from all smart devices, can provide peace of mind. This will allow you to set up your own secure configurations without lingering access from former homeowners.