UAE Cybersecurity Council Warns Families on Smart Home Device Risks
Nearly three-quarters of smart home devices in UAE homes are at risk of cyberattacks, the Cybersecurity Council has warned.
Smart Homes in the UAE: Convenience Meets Risk
Smart technology is spreading quickly across the UAE. Families now enjoy homes with automated lighting, voice assistants, smart TVs, and even internet-connected refrigerators. These devices make life easier, save energy, and add comfort.
But the UAE Cybersecurity Council has raised an important concern. According to its latest findings, many of these devices are not secure. If left unprotected, they can open doors for hackers.
This warning is a reminder that while technology improves lives, it also creates new dangers that must be addressed.
Why Smart Devices Are Attractive Targets
Smart devices are part of the Internet of Things, often called IoT. This means they connect to the internet and to each other. The more devices people connect, the more chances hackers have to break in.
In many UAE homes, devices like voice assistants, air conditioning systems, and baby monitors are always online. Hackers see this as an opportunity. With weak security, they can spy on conversations, track movement in homes, or even control the devices remotely.
Baby monitors were highlighted as one of the biggest risks. If hacked, strangers could watch or talk to children. This shows how serious the problem can become if families ignore security.
Common Mistakes That Increase Cyber Risk
The council pointed out that many families unknowingly make mistakes that leave devices exposed. These include:
- Using the default password set by the manufacturer.
- Keeping devices connected to the internet all the time.
- Sharing the main Wi-Fi password with guests.
- Forgetting to update devices with the latest software.
- Connecting too many unnecessary gadgets to the internet.
Each of these mistakes creates weak spots. Hackers can use them to enter a home network and steal data or take control.
Simple Steps to Secure Smart Devices
The good news is that families can protect themselves with simple habits. The Cybersecurity Council recommended clear steps for everyone:
- Create strong, unique passwords for each device. Avoid using the same password more than once.
- Update devices regularly to fix any known security issues.
- Use a central hub to manage all devices instead of connecting them separately.
- Turn off voice assistants when they are not being used.
- Enable privacy settings and check security features before use.
- Set up a separate Wi-Fi network just for smart devices. This keeps the main network safe.
- Buy only what you need, not every new gadget on the market.
These steps can make a big difference in protecting homes from online attacks.
Cyber Pulse Initiative: Raising Awareness in the UAE
To spread awareness, the UAE Cybersecurity Council has launched a campaign under its Cyber Pulse initiative.
This campaign runs for a week and shares practical advice with families. It explains the importance of strong passwords, frequent updates, and safe internet habits. The aim is to make every household more aware of the dangers and how to avoid them.
By educating the public, the council hopes to build a culture where cybersecurity is part of daily life, not an afterthought.
Why Hackers Target UAE Homes
The UAE is one of the most connected countries in the world. High internet usage and the growing popularity of smart homes make it a natural target for cybercriminals.
Hackers see smart homes as valuable because they can access private conversations, financial details, and personal data. Some may even use the devices to launch bigger attacks on other systems.
As the UAE continues to lead in smart living, protecting homes becomes even more important.
Global Lessons in Smart Device Security
Other countries are facing similar challenges. In the United States, the FBI has warned families about insecure IoT devices. In the UK, new laws now ban default passwords on smart devices. Manufacturers must also provide clear details about how long they will support each device with updates.
The UAE can learn from these examples. By acting early, it can prevent large-scale cyberattacks and build trust in smart living technologies.
Balancing Technology and Safety
Smart devices will only grow in number in the UAE. From smart meters that track energy use to connected cars, the future will be more digital than ever.
But families must remember that safety comes first. Just as people lock their front doors, they must also “lock” their digital doors. A secure home in the modern world is not only about walls and windows — it is about networks, devices, and passwords too.
The Future of Smart Living in the UAE
Analysts predict the UAE smart home market will continue to expand in the coming years. Demand for convenience, automation, and efficiency is high.
However, if devices are not secured, the risks will grow alongside the benefits. The UAE Cybersecurity Council’s warning is timely. It reminds families that technology should serve them, not put them at risk.
By taking simple steps today, residents can enjoy the benefits of smart living without fear.
Final Word
The UAE Cybersecurity Council’s message is clear: smart devices bring comfort but also create risks. Families should not wait until something goes wrong. Instead, they must act now by following basic safety steps.
Cybersecurity is everyone’s responsibility. By building good habits and staying alert, UAE households can protect both their privacy and their future.
