(MENAFN) Ken Munro, an ethical hacker, demonstrated Friday how easily Internet of Things (IoT) devices can be compromised, using examples like smart kettles, talking dolls, and home Wi-Fi networks to show that minor security flaws can lead to major breaches.

Speaking at Türkiye Innovation Week, Munro, founder and partner of the ethical hacking firm Pen Test Partners, performed a “live hacking” session to highlight vulnerabilities in everyday connected devices.

“How can you be ethical and a hacker?” he asked. “Well, we’re brought in by organizations to hack them in a controlled way so they can find the bugs and vulnerabilities, fix them, and then the bad hackers can’t do anything.”

Munro emphasized simple but effective measures users can take to protect themselves online, starting with passwords. “Probably the best thing we can do is to use our passwords,” he said. He warned against reusing passwords across multiple accounts, noting that this practice makes it easier for hackers to gain access.

The ethical hacker also stressed the importance of software updates. “When your smartphone says, ‘Hey, I’ve got an update,’ that software is fixing security flaws. So it’s really important that you update everything you own—your smartphone, your computer, your TV, even your refrigerator.”

He advised caution with phishing emails, which can trick users into giving away sensitive data. “Watch out to make sure that you’re not clicking on a link that may take you to a hacker website where they steal your details,” he said.

Munro also recommended using multifactor authentication to add another layer of security. “If your password is stolen, you’re still okay, unless the hacker has your phone also,” he noted.

Even home Wi-Fi networks, he warned, can be vulnerable. “If it’s the one that’s written on the side of your router, you have a problem,” he said, recommending a strong, complex password of 10 to 15 characters.

When asked which brands consumers could trust, Munro pointed to major manufacturers. “The brands I trust are the big names. I trust the manufacturers of Google, Amazon devices because they have a reputation to uphold, and they also have the financial resources to maintain their cybersecurity.”

Türkiye Innovation Week 2025, the country’s largest innovation event, began Thursday at Istanbul’s Halic Congress Center with the theme “Tomorrow: Now.” Organized by the Turkish Exporters Assembly with support from the Ministry of Trade and Anadolu Agency, the three-day event features panels, masterclasses, digital art exhibitions, experience areas, and networking opportunities for academics, executives, entrepreneurs, and innovation leaders from around the world.

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