What should you pay attention to when buying cheap smart devices?

Cheap smart devices are becoming more and more popular. But they also come with risks, especially for 'naive' users who put their trust in the product without checking its security.

Illustration of popular low-cost smart devices

Cheap smart devices are increasingly popular in households, from WiFi sockets to security cameras that cost just a few hundred thousand dong. But they also contain many unpredictable security risks.

Cheap smart devices: Easy to buy, difficult to control

Many low-cost smart devices often lack modern security standards or have limited software updates. In an environment where they are constantly connected to the Internet, this makes them a weak point for hackers to penetrate users' internal networks.

According to Tuoi Tre Online 's research, cyber security experts have recorded many cases of cheap cameras being hijacked and broadcasting images back to the Internet.

Some sensors or smart plugs are also exploited for distributed denial of service (DDoS) attacks, when they are remotely controlled and join botnets without the user's knowledge.

In fact, many devices of unknown origin do not encrypt data when transmitting, leading to the leakage of personal information, living habits, and even sounds and images from within the home. This is a particularly serious risk when the device is placed in a bedroom, study room or private space.

How to proactively protect yourself?

Many consumers choose to buy cheap devices because of their low cost and ease of installation. However, the concept of "buying for fun, using for convenience" if prolonged can make the device become an "Achilles heel" in the digital world .

To minimize risks, users should prioritize choosing products with clear brands, security commitments, and positive reviews from the technology community. Avoid buying cheap devices of unknown origin or without software updates.

Immediately after installation, the default password should be changed as this is one of the common vulnerabilities that allow the device to be controlled remotely. The password should be strong enough, combining uppercase, lowercase, numbers and special characters.

At the same time, users need to limit granting sensitive access to applications that come with the device such as microphone, camera or location if not really necessary.

Tips for testing smart devices

When buying cheap smart devices like cameras, WiFi sockets, or smart speakers, take the time to carefully check the label and product information. If you don’t see the manufacturer’s name, there are no clear instructions, or the control app asks for too many permissions, you should consider it.

After purchase, users should change the default password and disable unnecessary features such as remote access. If using WiFi, put the device on a separate network (guest network) so as not to affect the main phone or computer.

Finally, if the device regularly “auto-sends” data when not in use, or the phone displays unusual notifications related to the device, disconnect and check again as it may have been accessed illegally.

TUAN VI

Source: https://tuoitre.vn/mua-thiet-bi-thong-minh-gia-re-can-luu-y-gi-20250701214237578.htm