Smart Doorbells or Security Cameras

The Internet of Things (IoT) is finally starting to take off. With it come many new smart home products that make us humans lazier or more productive depending on who you talk to.

Siri and Alexa now control everything from your vacuum to your fridge to your car. Our houses are entering the future, but it’s not cheap. Buying used smart devices can be tempting, just remember IoT devices aren’t particularly secure; and, used devices with cameras should be avoided if at all possible.

According to [Wirecutter and Mashable], smart camera vulnerabilities can allow previous owners to spy on buyers. That’s right, that used camera you just installed in your children’s bedroom, might not be as private as you think it is.

While most manufacturers patch security vulnerabilities and often a factory reset will do the trick; buying new—where possible—is the safest bet. Many devices besides cameras may have hidden software or altered firmware, sometimes we have to take the risk to save money, but at least be aware of these risks.