Explainer-Could hackers get inside my fridge?

In many cases, attackers are more interested in stealing data, disrupting services or using connected devices as a way into a larger network.

Routers, not appliances, account for more than three-quarters of all attacks on connected devices, according to security-industry data.

Once inside a device, a hacker can generally do one of two things: gather information or take control of the device.

Hackers who take control of a device can switch it on ​or off, change settings or lock users out of their accounts.

The simplest rule is often the most effective: the fewer connected devices you have, the fewer potential entry points exist for attackers.