IoT- The growing trend
The Internet of things is a growing trend in tech that connects physical objects equipped with sensors and software to share data over the internet or other networks. While it’s making a big impact globally, it’s also bringing along a bunch of technical risks and threats. We really need to come up with new ways to protect the huge amounts of data being generated. According to IT experts, nearly 60% of IoT devices are exposed to medium to high-level cyber-attacks. As most of these devices are interconnected with many other smart gadgets for data collection, sharing, and storage, hackers may exploit such connectivity to break systems and access critical information spread across an entire organisation.
To counter this, companies should implement a security-by-design approach when deploying IoT devices. This means integrating cybersecurity measures right into the product design and considering the environment where the device will be used.
Why is IoT security important?
IoT security is about protecting internet-connected devices and their networks from online threats and breaches. This involves detecting, tracking, and fixing any security weaknesses in these devices. In simple words, it is the practice of ensuring that the IoT system stays secure.
Why does IoT security matter?
Well, the IoT is not limited to just computers or smartphones; pretty much anything that has an on/off switch can be hooked up to the internet, making it part of this vast network. The sheer number of devices creates a huge amount of user data at risk, and this user data can easily fall into the wrong hands of cybercriminals. The more devices you have connected, the more chances there are for hackers to breach your security. The fallout from IoT security breaches can be really serious.
IoT security challenges
1. Weak default passwords and brute-force attacks
A lot of IoT equipment comes with pretty weak default passwords that most customers do not consider changing. This leaves their devices as an easy target to hackers, who can easily utilise brute-force methods to hack into the devices.
2. Lack of testing and development
Some of the IoT companies have hurried their products to the market, treating security as an afterthought. They might have neglected some potential security risks in the development stage, and after launching the product, there are hardly any updates on security. But as more people become conscious of the security issues in IoT, the focus on the security of the devices is also improving.
3. IOT malware and ransomware
With the rapid growth of IoT devices in the last few years and this trend is expected to continue, the threat of malware and ransomware targeting these devices has increased. IoT botnet malware has become one of the most frequently encountered types of threats.
4. Poor interfaces
IoT devices are often plagued by common interface issues, such as weak encryption or inadequate data authentication.
5. More cyberattacks
Compromised IoT devices can be used to conduct DDoS attacks. This occurs when hijacked devices are used to attack other machines or to hide malicious activities. While organisations are the most common victims of DDoS attacks on IoT devices, smart homes are also vulnerable.
6. Data privacy issues
IoT devices collect, send, store, and process a huge amount of user data. Much of this information ends up being shared or sold to other companies. Even though users generally agree to terms of service before using these devices, many don’t actually read them, so it’s often unclear how their data might be used.
7. Growth of remote work
The Covid-19 pandemic has witnessed a global upsurge in remote work. Even though IoT devices made working from home easier for most people, home networks lack the same level of security that corporate networks have. The increased usage, however, exposed the weaknesses of IoT security.
IoT security best practices
1. Update devices and software
So, when you purchase an IoT device, make sure the seller is providing you with updates, and install them right away. Updating your software is super important for keeping your IoT devices safe. If you’re running older software on your device, hackers have a bigger window of opportunity to break into your device. Some of your devices will automatically update; others you might have to go to the manufacturer’s site and get the update yourself.
2. Change default passwords on IoT devices
A lot of people use the same username and password for all their gadgets. It’s so easy that cyber criminals will have no problem breaking into them. Always create unique logins and change the default password on new devices. Use different passwords for different devices.
3. Use strong passwords for all your devices and Wi-Fi
A good password should be 12 characters or longer and contain a combination of upper and lower-case letters, numbers, and symbols. Avoid simple choices like “1234” or personal information that might be known about you, such as your birthday or your pet’s name. A password manager can be a lifesaver for keeping track of all your logins.
4. Change your router’s name
Using the default router name is easy for anyone to guess what model you have. So why not change it? Just pick a new name that does not contain any personal information like your name or address.
5. Use a strong Wi-Fi encryption method
Ensure your router is using a strong encryption method, such as WPA2 or newer, in order to keep your network secure. Earlier standards like WPA and WEP are pretty easy prey for hackers.
6. Create a guest network
If your router has this feature, consider setting up a guest Wi-Fi network, using WPA2 or higher, and secured with a strong password. This is ideal for visitors because their devices may already be compromised. A guest network will really take your home network to the next level in terms of security.
7. Check your IoT devices for privacy settings
Most IoT devices come with default privacy and security settings, so it is wise to go through them and tweak anything that doesn’t sit right with you. Additionally, check out the privacy policies to see how the company handles your personal data.
8. Keep an eye on the features your devices offer and turn off the ones you don’t use
Check out what your devices have and disable all those that you do not use. This is how you minimise the opportunities of cyber-attacks. For example, a smart watch is only to tell time but could have Bluetooth, calling, or voice activation. If you do not use these add-ons, they only create ways for hackers to gain access without any benefit to you. Disabling them keeps your device safe.
9. Turn on multi-factor authentication whenever you can
Multi-factor authentication (MFA) adds an extra layer of security by requiring two or more forms of verification to access your accounts. Instead of just needing a username and password, MFA might ask for a one-time code sent to your phone or email. If your smart devices support MFA, definitely enable it.
10. Know which IoT devices are connected to your home network
Take stock of the devices on your network and understand what they do. Some of them might be outdated models, so consider whether upgrading to new ones could improve your IoT security.
Best IoT security advice
Sticking to the best practices of IoT device security is super important in keeping users, devices, and data safe all the time. It all starts with crafting a solid cyber resiliency strategy that aligns with the company’s overall IT approach and business goals. This strategy should touch on every part of the business that taps into the IoT network. A strong IoT security strategy must clearly define the security measures that would be undertaken and how those will be audited or refreshed over time. It must also give a clear view of the IT setup of the organisation and, more notably, the endpoints to ensure the entire business is well guarded from IoT risks.
