Fear of Smart Home Devices

A recent survey has found that as many as 76per cent of Brits are scared of using smart home devices.

21:18 02 October 2017

Of the 2,000 people surveyed, 51per cent said that they are worried that their devices could be hacked and controlled by criminals. Meanwhile, 43per cent of respondents said they are worried about virus while 42per cent said that they are not comfortable being recorded by wireless security cameras, for example, without their knowledge.

 

However, only 6per cent of participants said that they actually know a lot about smart technology.

 

Although it is true that home automation devices can be vulnerable to hackers and unauthorised access, there are simple but effective ways to keep them secure. Experts recommend changing the password of any smart device before using them. Their software must also be kept up-to-date.

 

Meanwhile, the survey participants were also asked about smart home devices that they would like to be developed. Their answers were interesting to say the least. 29per cent want a self-cleaning oven while 11per cent want a self-emptying bin. Although these are not yet available, many smart devices that can do dull chores with little human output have already found their way to the market. These include robot vacuum cleaners and lawn mowers, among others.