The Responsibility of Helping Protect the Internet Lies with All of Us

A hacker attack at such a wide level may seem scary, but even more so when the attacks came from devices in our homes. While some media outlets are over-sensationalizing this event, the important takeaway is that you can do something to prevent DDoS attacks like this in the future. If anything, this particular attack has opened the eyes of millions of people by showing how important Internet security is in this day and age. And the fact is that security is not just a one-way street. Although reputable companies do try to build in basic security protocols into their products, everything is still vulnerable. If we want nice things, we have to share our responsibility for protecting them.

Protect What You Can:

The best way to defend all of your devices is to protect what comes in contact with your network. By installing a reputable Internet security program, such as Norton.com/setup Security, it will protect your phones, tablets, and computers against the multitude of malware on the Internet landscape. The more protected your devices are, the less chance you have of becoming an unwilling participant in these types of attacks.

Secure That Router!

Your router is essentially the front door to your Internet home. The VERY first thing you should do is change the default password. You should be able to find the instructions online by doing an Internet search of your router’s make and model number, and using the search term “setup” or “change default password.” For a more in-depth look at how to secure your router, check out “How to Securely Set Up Your Home Wi-Fi Router.”

Don’t Forget About IoT — They’re Computers Too!

As with routers, do some research on your device to see if it has a default password. If it does, the manufacturer’s website should have instructions on how to change it. Make sure the password you create is complicated, unique, and hard to guess. Be sure to not share passwords with other devices as well. It may seem like an easy “hack” to remember them; however, if a hacker gets ahold of one password, they can try that password on other things.

Stay Protected and Carry On!

We now live in the age of the Internet of Things. More and more devices are becoming connected to the Internet — not just tablets, phones, and computers.  These devices make our lives more convenient, entertaining and connected. When it comes to Internet security, it is vital we take steps to protect all of our things. Attackers mostly go after computers, laptops, and smartphones, but this attack goes to show that the focus is shifting to IoT devices as well.

The best way to get ahead of the bad guys is to participate in your own Internet security. Educate yourself about the threats out there and how they can affect you. Use security software, research your devices and secure them, and tell your friends to do the same! When more of us stay protected together, attackers will have fewer targets to take advantage of.