Virtually any device you have connected to the Internet can be attacked by cybercriminals. In this case, we are going to focus on smart light bulbs. They are very popular, useful and easy-to-use products, but they could pose a security problem in certain cases. We are going to tell you what you should do to increase protection.
The risk may increase if you have many light bulbs in your home and, in addition, they are different models. This is where you should take more measures to avoid problems and compromise security and privacy. Cybercriminals could take advantage of errors and possible failures in the devices.
Attacks on smart light bulbs
The truth is yes. An attacker could break the security of Wi-Fi light bulbs. We have seen several cases, affecting models from different brands, that have had significant vulnerabilities. These flaws are what allow cybercriminals to have free rein and be able to attack.
In some cases, we have seen that they have even been able to steal passwords, including the Wi-Fi password, through a vulnerability existing in a smart light bulb. Therefore, they could not only turn the lights on or off, provided they had remote control, but they could go further.
Someone could potentially even access the app you use to control your light bulbs. Typically, you have to enter a username and password. If you were to fall victim to a phishing attack, they could steal the password and gain control over the devices you have configured.
| Model | We highlight | Price |
 TP-Link TAPO L530E
|
Quality bulb, with away mode, multicolour and compatible with Alexa and Google Home.
|
How to avoid it
So, what can you do to avoid problems? Something fundamental, and something we always recommend from RedesZone, is that you buy quality light bulbs. This should be applied to any home automation product. We have seen cases in which the devices even came with malware from the factory, so it is worth checking very carefully what you are buying. You can always read reviews and comments from other users.
Beyond that first step, you should also make sure that you have your bulbs properly updated. Be very careful with this, as it is the only thing that will help you correct possible vulnerabilities that they may have and that are the gateway for cybercriminals when trying to control your lights.
Another essential tip is to always use good passwords. Also, be very careful with phishing attacks that can leak your passwords. Always use completely random, long passwords that are difficult to guess. Never put things like your name, date of birth and similar.
It’s a good idea to always carry out a periodic check. Check from time to time that your bulbs are properly configured and updated. This will help you detect errors as soon as possible and prevent hackers from taking advantage of them.
In short, in a potential case an attacker could control your smart bulbs. After all, they are devices connected to the network and could have vulnerabilities. Preventing this from happening is in your hands as long as you buy reliable models and have them properly configured and updated.
