Set up right to protect online toys

Taking five minutes on Christmas day to correctly set up and protect your new gadgets and gizmos could save you from experiencing a very unhappy new year, says Matthew Dimock of Dimocks 100% Stratford.

Matthew says while the many "Internet of Things" gadgets such as fitness bands, smartwatches, drones, and a wealth of other internet-connected devices now available make great presents, people need to be aware the internet is a two-way street.

"Just as you can connect to your device, so can a hacker."

It might not seem like something you should worry about.

"Lots of people think a hacker wouldn't bother accessing their fitness watch. After all, what would they gain from knowing how many steps you have taken or calories you have eaten, but hackers are very clever, and once they have access to a device, they can install malware and identify passwords on your network."

This doesn't mean people shouldn't enjoy giving and receiving the many great internet-connected items available nowadays says Matthew.

"It just means you need to make sure you don't just rip it out of the box and start using it, but take the time to set it up correctly."

"Factory passwords are often things like 1234 and easily guessed. Change it to something you will remember but someone else can't easily work out."

Matthew says he and all of the team at Dimocks 100% Stratford are happy to help customers ensure their new devices are safe and ready to use.

"If you aren't sure, just ask us, we are always happy to take the time to make sure your new device is going to be as useful and secure as possible.