The whole world is becoming smarter with integrated technology. Devices that are configured with wireless technology such as Bluetooth can easily pair with other devices and be controlled remotely. It’s a great development because we have seen devices such as air conditioners, heaters and televisions embrace the technology and LED lights will be on the radar. However, there are security concerns that have been raised and it is important that you are aware of them before investing in any Smart lighting solutions. Security consultant Ken Munro shares the following security concerns with smart lighting.

Mistakes in your Smart device’s security can make your home or business vulnerable to hackers.

Some manufacturers put communication chips into their devices without thinking about the consequences. Ken has seen manufacturers bolting in Bluetooth, GSM or Wi-Fi modules that are only worth a few dollars. Even though it does the job with turning it into a Smart device, he believes that hackers can easily figure out the code for the mobile apps that control these devices, which can provide them with the device’s IP address and expose the device to serious security threats.

He addressed a crowd at LuxLive in London saying;

“Please, if you’re going to IoT-enable one of your devices, read the security guidelines, so you don’t inadvertently end up making a lightbulb vulnerable to an Internet worm.”

This was in reference to a set of Philips smart lighting products that flashed emergency signals after a drone-based virus attacked them in an office building via a Zigbee wireless link. Munro did say that wireless technologies such as Zigbee, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth can all be secured.

How serious are these security threats?

Munro actually went on to do a live demonstration by hacking a smart kettle device. Once he hacked the kettle, he was able to get the password for the wireless network. Once he had that, he could become the middleman and listen to everything that is sent over your Wi-Fi network. That means knowing your banking passwords, knowing what sites you are browsing on and knowing what and who you are contacting on social media. He even went onto say that if your building’s security is linked to the Wi-Fi network, it will make it easier for savvy IT thieves to unlock everything and walk into your property.

So think twice before you invest in a smart LED solution. The best thing is to speak to a LEDified consultant who can point you in the right direction and make sure that you are recommended products that won’t breach your property’s security.

You can see the original story on LED Magazine.