Digitally connected devices are becoming integral to many aspects of our lives.

Smart devices like Google Home allow users to play music, adjust the temperature and turn down the lights with a simple voice command. Mobile phone apps can deactivate home alarms, remotely start a car kilometres away or allow a parent to view a child in daycare while they’re at work.

In spite of all of the benefits these devices may bring, there are shortcomings to consider.

An upcoming Cyber Security Awareness workshop hosted by Brock’s Information Technology Services will address the Internet of Things (IoT) — a collection of devices that communicate with each other over home networks or the internet — and the increased potential for hacker targeting.

Planned for Wednesday, May 16 from 10 to 10:30 a.m. in the Computer Commons Training Room, the workshop will offer best practices and recommendations on securing home networks and IoT personal and work devices.

Faculty and staff are invited to register for the Internet of Things workshop on Focus on Learning. The session is limited to 20 participants.

Additional upcoming Cyber Security Awareness workshops include topics such as encryption, iOS mobile devices, Android mobile devices and cyber criminal targeting.