re: Internet of Things and home automation vulnerabilities

quote:

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Wouldn't the first step be to get a router that allows people to hide their network. I would think that would be a simple start as it at least keeps it from being the easiest target in the area/neighborhood.

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Not for the exploit identified in the OP (which has already been fixed by Hue, by the way).

The idea of a completely separate network for your home system is not easy unless you are getting 2 IP addresses from your internet provider. Otherwise, you have to create a virtual network. Some people choose to use their router's guest network, but even then it is easy for a hacker to break through. Then, what if your setup pulls information from devices on your home network? Not so easy.

For instance, I have a zigbee 4-button switch that turns on and off my computer and monitor and controls the lights in my office. This would not easily be possible with separate networks. Additionally, presence detection using wifi connections would not work.