IT security company Avira has unveiled its Safethings product, designed to protect smart homes and their IoT devices.
The application is installed in routers to secure devices in the home and uses machine learning and artificial intelligence to detect issues.
Executives from Avira say that the application can be delivered either via the router or by an internet service provider, so that customers don’t need to “act as the information security officers for their home.”
Connected devices are protected against hijacking, ransomware, misuse and intrusion, while owners can see and control how their connected devices handle data.
Read more: Bullguard CEO: “A safer smart home shouldn’t be complicated.”
Guarding connected devices
Safethings works by carrying out four actions. First, a software agent tags each device in the smart home and collects basic information about messages going in and out through the gateway.
Second, machine learning classifies each device, determines normal behaviour, and develops the logic needed to set the rules. It automatically and autonomously learns and adapts to develop more accurate detection methods.
Third, the AI detects unusual device activity and then shuts down the suspect activity without disturbing the device’s usual functions.
Finally, the user interface shows users what is occurring on the network, helping them to know more about the data that smart devices are collecting and broadcasting.
Read more: Honeywell launches Smart Home Security System
Smart home headaches
“We know that people don’t want to buy yet another device and they certainly don’t want the headache that comes with installation,” said Travis Witteveen, CEO of Avira.
“We know that users just want to enjoy the experience of the smart appliances, without leaving the couch, and while being safe. They expect security and privacy protection to just work. Together with our partners, the internet service providers and router manufacturers, we work to deliver IoT security and privacy to consumers, via their routers, in a highly effective and friendly way.”
In other words, to reap the benefits of Safethings, consumers will need to pick from Avira’s list of approved routers or internet service providers.