The UAE Cyber Security Council says 70% of smart home devices are exposed to hacking due to weak protection.
ABU DHABI: The UAE Cyber Security Council (CSC) has issued a strong warning that 70 percent of smart home devices are at risk of cyberattacks if not secured properly. The announcement comes as part of its intensified efforts to protect digital infrastructure under its “Cyber Pulse” awareness campaign.
Devices such as voice assistants, smart cameras, lighting systems, and connected air conditioning units are increasingly found in homes, making them attractive targets for cybercriminals. According to the council, the vulnerability is often due to users’ low awareness of cybersecurity risks and their reliance on factory settings.
Risky user behaviours, the CSC noted, include leaving voice assistants on all the time, connecting them to unsecured Wi-Fi networks, or sharing the main household Wi-Fi password with guests. Such actions can enable hackers to gain remote access to personal data and even control devices.
In particular, baby monitors were identified as highly vulnerable. Without strong security settings, they can be easily accessed by intruders, allowing unauthorised surveillance or even direct communication with children and family members.
To reduce cyber threats, the council recommends using strong passwords, updating devices regularly, and managing all smart systems through one secured controller. Additionally, users should switch off voice assistants when not in use, activate privacy settings, and use a separate Wi-Fi network for smart devices.
This week, the Cyber Security Council is focusing on smart home safety in a bid to educate families about the growing cyber risks in modern households and to promote safer digital practices across the UAE.
