A camera can be well mounted and still expose footage if its account is poorly protected. The same principle applies to locks, alarms, and voice assistants. Build an access plan that works for the whole household without sharing one administrator login with everyone.
Use separate credentials
Create a unique password for each device service and the email account used for recovery. A password manager can help store long credentials and reduce reuse. Do not choose a password based on your home address, a pet’s name, or another public detail.
Enable multifactor authentication
Turn on available multifactor authentication and choose a strong supported method. Save recovery codes securely, separate from the phone you use to authenticate. Then check that another authorized household member can recover access through the provider’s intended process if the main administrator is unavailable.
Review invitations and linked services
List who can view footage, unlock doors, change alarm settings, or add users. Remove expired guests and old phones. Review third-party integrations and revoke connections that no longer serve a purpose. A voice assistant link may create another route to a device, so inspect its permissions too.
Keep software supported
Enable appropriate updates and check whether the manufacturer still supports each device. Save model numbers and purchase records. When replacing or selling hardware, follow the official reset and account-unlinking process; deleting an app from your phone does not remove the device from the vendor account.
Make recovery part of the routine
- Protect the recovery email account.
- Store backup codes in a secure, accessible place.
- Review active sessions after a lost phone or suspicious notification.
- Keep a backup way to enter the home.
- Check access after household members or service providers change.
For external guidance, see the FTC’s connected-device security advice. Pair account protection with a secure Wi-Fi setup and a clear guest access routine.
