Cyber security tips for your baby gear

Investing in the latest baby tech? Learn how to keep it secure

So, you’ve recently had (or are having) a baby. Congrats! In preparation for this momentous occasion, you’ve probably done some research. You’ve prepared a nursery, stocked up on receiving blankets, and have started to think about how you will parent, which you may or may not change when faced with the reality of a newborn. Maybe you even read What to Expect When You’re Expecting (or skipped it for the movie — don’t worry, we won’t tell).  "baby emojis, a shelf with baby toys and a video baby monitor"

One thing that probably isn’t at the top of your parenting to-do list is ensuring all of your baby gear is safe from cyber threats.

But with the increase in smart baby gear (high-tech changing pads, anyone?), it’s a good idea to learn how to make sure you and your bundle of joy are cyber secure.

Make sure you’re the only one monitoring your baby

Baby monitors are a great way to keep tabs on your little one while they sleep. And if you have particularly resourceful twins, they could also be your ticket to viral stardom.

But if you would prefer not to give strangers a view into your home, there are a few things you should keep in mind to secure your baby monitor.
There are two major categories of baby monitors: monitors that work on a fixed frequency over radio waves and monitors that work on Wi-Fi.

Because of their fixed frequency and short range, monitors that use radio waves are considered very secure; they’re virtually un-hackable so you don’t need to take extra security measures when it comes to these devices.
There are benefits to Wi-Fi enabled baby monitors, though, including a longer connection range and the ability to connect the monitor to your smartphone.

If you do choose a Wi-Fi baby monitor, stay secure by doing the following:

  • Change the default password (better yet, use a passphrase!)
  • Enable automatic updates if available. If not, regularly check for firmware updates.
  • Decide on the access options you enable. Consider whether you need to check on your monitor while outside of the house. As long as your phone is secure, this shouldn’t be a problem (and it’s one of the perks of a Wi-Fi device).

Monitors are useful tools to know when your baby might need your attention. Just make sure you do your due diligence when choosing and setting one up.

Be smart about the speakers in the nursery

For some, smart speakers are a good option for your baby’s room. They can be used to play lullabies, add white noise, and answer your toddler’s endless questions. But there are risks if you don’t take the necessary precautions.

To make sure your smart speaker continues to rescue bedtime, make sure you:

  • Set a strong passphrase and enable multi-factor authentication if available on the device.
  • Enable automatic software updates.
  • Disable the online purchasing function (or you’ll never know what will show up at your door).

Consider whether a smart speaker is the best option for your home, or if a different noise machine would do the trick. If you choose a smart speaker, just make sure it’s secure and you’re good to go.

The Internet of everything-else-baby-related

The market for baby-related gadgets is endless. And sleep-deprived parents seem to be willing to do whatever it takes to keep their children happy (and asleep). Trying to cover the spectrum of smart baby devices would be impossible (and would require daily updates to this blog post). But there are some common tips to secure any smart device you bring into your home.

  • Read new devices’ privacy policies and terms of use.
  • Change the default device name provided by the manufacturer.
  • Connect all of your smart devices – baby-related or not – to a guest Wi-Fi network.
  • If applicable, secure each new device with a strong and unique passphrase.

Another helpful tip is to consider whether you really need the gadget you have your eye on. Exhaustion can do crazy things to people, and maybe you don’t actually need that smart bib.

Conclusion

There are lots of ways to buy the latest tech and justify it by saying “it’s for the baby”. But that excuse goes out the window if you introduce your family to potential cyber threats. Make sure you follow these simple steps to keep your nursery (and the rest of your house) secure.

 

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