Did you get a new internet-connected holiday gift this year?

Did you get a new internet-connected
holiday gift this year?

Experian offers eight tips to help
keep you secure while using the Internet of Things

Singapore, 28 December, 2016 — Internet-connected devices
were among the top holiday sales this year. Around the world more and more
people are using devices like virtual assistants (such as Amazon Echo and
Google Home), smart TVs and connected watches to make their lives easier — and
in some cases better. But this isn’t without risk. In our search for convenience,
do we have to sacrifice privacy?

“A common
mistake many of us make with internet-connected devices is that we treat each
one individually. The Internet of Things is only as strong as its weakest link.
That’s why it’s so important to understand and treat each connected device as
part of a broader network,” said Steve Platt, global executive vice president,
Fraud and Identity, Experian.

The good
news: You can have both convenience and privacy, as long as you know how to
secure your devices along the way.

Here are
eight tips to help you protect your identity while enjoying your new gifts.

1.    Make
sure the products and services you are connecting were purchased from reputable
companies.

2.    Take
a few minutes to review the privacy and data usage policies for each product or
service. These privacy policies and data use statements should be clear, easy
to read and easy to understand. It’s important to know how your personal data
is used, stored or shared and to be comfortable with the terms before using the
device.

3.    Look
for devices that use end-to-end encryption, meaning third parties can’t read or
listen to your communications. More and more products are including this
terminology right in the product description. If it’s not there, ask.

4.    Be
careful when turning on features for less secure devices. Remember that a less
secure device can open a door into your network, which can lead to access to
other connected devices.

5.    Change
the default password before connecting the device to your network and enable
two-factor authentication options, when available, for additional security. For
example, you might use a username and password plus something else that only
you know.

6.    Pay
extra attention to your Wi-Fi network and leverage all available security
options, including things like router and network passwords, encryption,
firewalls and firmware.

7.    Be
aware of the applications installed on devices, and download applications only
from reputable providers. Also, only download apps created by trusted entities.

8.    Got
kids? Make sure children are supervised when using internet-enabled devices,
especially when downloading apps and connecting to other devices. 

Internet-connected
devices provide endless possibilities, but they rely on technology and
collected data to deliver on their promises. By following these tips, you can
enjoy the conveniences and stay safe at the same time.

Learn more
about Experian at http://www.experian.com/business-services/fraud-management.html.