Cybersecurity and the Home Revolution

Today, homes are filled with devices that listen, see, and even speak. However, what about the risks associated with this convenience? When technology that makes life easier can also be an open door for cybercriminals, protecting smart homes becomes crucial.

The Smart Home Market

According to an article by CyberGhost VPN, the smart home technology market will reach a valuation of 150 billion euros (150 billion euros) by the end of 2024. Additionally, its annual growth is expected to be 10.17% until 2029.

Smart Homes in Spain

In Spain, it is projected that by the end of 2025, at least 21% of homes will be smart. However, a study from the end of 2024 shows that already 52.8% of homes have these technologies.

The study also reveals that 74.5% of Spaniards would be willing to invest in devices to transform their home into a smart one. The regions with the greatest interest are Extremadura (88.6%), Castilla y León (81.4%), and the Community of Madrid (77.2%).

Cyber Threats to Smart Devices

In 2022, cyberattacks increased by 2% overall, but those targeting smart devices in particular were 87%. Additionally, the vulnerabilities of these devices increased by 57% in the first half of 2022 compared to the previous semester.

Many of these problems arise from the use of default passwords or the lack of updates on the devices. The consequences go beyond data theft; strikers also integrate the devices into networks used to attack large systems, both corporate and governmental.

Cyberattacks in Spain

In Spain, smart homes are becoming more common, but security is not advancing at the same pace. Between January and August 2023, Madrid recorded more than 250 cyberattacks daily, most of them originating from Russia.

Although exact statistics on attacks on smart homes are not available, it is reasonable to assume that they are a frequent target.

Economic Impact of Cybercrime in Spain

It is estimated that by 2025, the global cost of cyberattacks will reach 10 trillion euros (10 trillion euros), a figure comparable to the combined GDP of Japan, Germany, and France. In Spain, the numbers are equally alarming:

Business losses from cyberattacks doubled between 2020 and 2021, rising from 54,388 euros (54,388 euros) to 105,655 euros (105,655 euros).

Information thefts increased 5.7 times in the same period.

In 2021, 71% of companies suffered a ransomware attack (access to systems is blocked until a ransom is paid).

Protecting a Connected Home

Protecting a smart home is not complicated. The following is recommended:

Change default passwords.

Regularly update device software.

Use a VPN to encrypt traffic and protect privacy.

The Future Needs Locks

Technology has given homes a digital dimension, but it has also opened many windows to danger. Every advance brings with it the responsibility to protect what is connected. Smart homes offer convenience, but they demand caution.

In this delicate balance between progress and security lies the true challenge. What good is a bright future full of shadows? The secret is not to disconnect, but to know how to shield.