Smart devices are any electrical item that connects to the internet.

Examples include your mobile, a fitness tracker, or smart appliances and plugs controlled by an app.

The risks of smart devices

If your smart device is not protected with a strong password or kept updated, it’s more likely to be hacked.

If someone hacks your smart devices, they could:

• get onto your wifi and launch a cyberattack against you
• use your smart devices to monitor or stalk you
• use your smart devices to harass you

For more advice on how to keep your smart devices secure contact the manufacturer or read the National Cyber Security Centre’s smart device guidance.

If you want to tell us about a hacked account or hacked device, you can report it online, by phone, or in person.

Report it using our online form

Learn about other ways you can report a crime to us

If you think your device has been attacked, you can:

• reset the device to factory settings
• ask the device manufacturer what extra steps you should take
• read our advice on what do if an account is hacked

To help protect your smart devices you can:

• use strong passwords and passphrases
• never reuse passwords for different accounts
• avoid opening suspicious emails or messages
• avoid clicking on unknown and untrusted links
• keep the device software updated
• turn on two-factor authentication
• follow any safety advice given by the device manufacturer