Over the past few years, millions of people around the globe have been getting smarter and smarter. No, they haven't been pouring over books and the Internet in a bid to get their heads around rocket science... they've been going out and buying an assortment of high-tech devices in line with continued advancements in the digital world. From smartphones and tablets to smart TVs for the home, people are now connected to the digital world no matter where they go and what they do.
But just how smart is leading a smart life? Well, there's no doubt that for many people this is a more convenient, exciting, and entertaining way to live their lives. However, given the increased rate of cybercrime and malware attacks over recent years, should we really be giving criminals multiple opportunities to defraud us, steal from us, or take over our identities?
How safe are smart homes?
A few years ago, most people thought they were living in a futuristic age simply because they'd managed to get their hands on the latest smartphone. However, it seems that these devices only scratched the surface of our appetite for high-tech smart devices. In fact, more and more people are now inviting smart technology into all areas of their home, turning their properties into giant smart devices that are controlled by advanced technology.
According to a recent report, the global smart homes market is set to be worth $13.4 billion by 2014. From lights and curtains to the security systems in the home, more and more people are turning to smart technology in a bid to make their lives easier. However, will this obsession with smart tech also make life easier for the rising breed of cybercriminals?
One recent report has predicted that while cybercriminals tend to focus on computers, tablets, and smartphones at the moment, it will only be a matter of time before they start turning their attention to 'smart homes.' Given the growth that is expected in the smart home sector over the next few years, this could be the next step up for the average ambitious cybercriminal. What does this mean for consumers? Well, it means that someday in the not too distant future, cybercriminals may not just have the means to control your computer -- they could find the means to control your home.
Clearly, this is something that manufacturers will be taking into consideration, and as more smart-home devices and technology come onto the market there will also be increased security measures put into place. However, it is certainly something that is worth thinking about if you are eager to transform your humble house into a futuristic smart hub that can be controlled with the touch of a button!