Home automation devices are increasingly present in our daily lives. We can find devices ranging from light bulbs or plugs to very sophisticated appliances. We can control them remotely, receive instant notifications or even save energy. But all this also brings certain problems or limitations. In this article, we echo a novelty in the United Kingdom in which they are going to prohibit the sale of certain smart devices if they do not meet an essential requirement.
Specifically, it is about prohibiting default passwords. If a smart device has default keys, it cannot be sold in this country. The reason is obvious: improve security. Now, will this reach other countries, such as Spain? And, does it really help with total protection?
Goodbye to default passwords in home automation
Yes, that is what the United Kingdom intends with this new law that has just come into force. Smart devices of any type can no longer be sold with default passwords. This is something we have always mentioned when talking about tips to improve security. We have always recommended changing the default passwords, whether they are from the router or any device.
According to them, the goal is to help users choose products that have been designed to provide adequate and continuous protection against cyber attacks. There, passwords play a fundamental role. Default keys can be found on the Internet and can be used by hackers to try and access those devices.
But what devices exactly can be affected? Really many types of devices. For example, we can name some such as smart speakers, televisions, doorbells, security cameras, light bulbs, plugs… Basically, any home automation equipment that can have a default password. Now, in the UK, this is going to be banned.
The fines will be large for companies that fail to comply with this rule and sell smart devices with default passwords. Therefore, on paper, it will be rare to be able to purchase products of this type in the United Kingdom, which should increase user security.
Always choose good keys
So what should you do to have good passwords? It is essential that they be totally random. Never use words that relate to you or numbers like your date of birth. It is important that they are difficult to memorize, even for you. That would be a sign that it is complex.
A good password should contain letters (both upper and lower case), numbers, and other special symbols. Make sure it is a good length, as each digit will make it exponentially more secure. We recommend that your passwords be at least 12 characters long.
Another tip that you should keep in mind is to change your access codes from time to time. Do not leave the same password for too long, as that could be a problem if there has been a leak and you are not aware of it. Keep this in mind to periodically change your passwords.
Ultimately, smart devices that have default passwords are going to be banned in the UK. Just as routers have a default password, it happens on many other devices. It is essential to always use secure passwords to avoid the risk of an attacker entering.
