The rise of the Internet of Things or IoT has transformed how we live and work. It has streamlined processes and improved efficiency in various ways. However, as the number of connected devices grows, so do the challenges of ensuring secure connectivity. With vulnerabilities ranging from weak encryption to outdated software, IoT security has become a critical concern.
What is IoT Security?
IoT security means protecting internet devices and the networks they connect to from online threats, hacks, and breaches. This is achieved by identifying, monitoring, and addressing potential security vulnerabilities across devices.
Why Is IoT Security Important?
The volume and diversity of technology’ that comprise the IoT mean that it contains a considerable amount of user data. All this data has the potential to be stolen or hacked by cybercriminals if it is not secured. The more connected devices, the more opportunities there are for cybercriminals to compromise your security.
The consequences of IoT security breaches can be very damaging because the Internet of Things affects both virtual and physical systems. For example, healthcare devices can expose sensitive patient data or even compromise patient safety. In smart homes, compromised devices could allow criminals to monitor people’s homes.
What Are the Challenges of Ensuring Secure Connectivity in IoT Devices?
Both the manufacturer and user need to do things in order to make sure that IoT devices are secure. However, there are still some challenges manufacturers and users face when it comes to IoT security. Here are some of the challenges faced when it comes to secure connectivity in IoT devices:
Lack of Testing
Some IoT manufacturers have treated security as an afterthought when in their hurriedness to bring products to market. Device-related security risks may have been overlooked in the development process and once launched, there may be a lack of security updates.
Default Passwords
Many IoT devices come with default passwords which are often too weak. Customers who buy them may not realise they can change them. Weak passwords and login details leave IoT devices vulnerable to password hacking. Once hacked, all your data can be stolen.
IoT Malware and Ransomware
Given the considerable increase in IoT-connected devices in recent years the risk of malware and ransomware exploiting these devices has increased significantly. IoT botnet malware has been amongst the most commonly seen variants.
Data Privacy Concerns
IoT devices gather, transmit, store and process a huge amount of user data. Oftentimes, this data can be shared with or sold to third parties. While users typically accept terms of service before using IoT devices, many people don’t read the terms, which means users don’t always know how their data can be used.
Cyberattacks
Infected IoT devices can be used for distributed denial of service attacks. This is where hijacked devices are used as an attack base to infect more devices connected or to conceal malicious activity. While these attacks on IoT devices more commonly affect organisations and businesses, they can also target smart homes.
IoT Security Best Practices
Now that we’ve covered all the security concerns, it’s important to know what you can do to make sure your IoT device is as secure as it can be. Here are some IoT security best practices you can follow:
Keep Up to Date With Software Updates
When buying an IoT device, check that the vendor provides updates and then consistently update your device as soon as it becomes available. Software updates are an essential factor in IoT device security. Devices that aren’t updated and use old software are easier for hackers to compromise.
Change Default Passwords on IoT Devices
Many people use the same login and password for every device they use. While it’s easier for people to remember, it’s also easier for people to hack. Make sure every login password is unique and always change the default password on new devices.
Use Strong Passwords for Your Devices and Wi-Fi
A strong password is long and contains a mix of characters, such as upper- and lower-case letters plus symbols and numbers. Avoid using personal information that someone who knows you might guess like your date of birth or your pet’s name.
Change your router’s name.
Snoopers may be able to determine the make or model of the router if you retain the name provided by the manufacturer. Change the name of your router instead, but be careful that it doesn’t reveal any personal information like your name or address.
Enable Multi-Factor Authentication
Multi-factor authentication is an authentication method that asks you to provide two or more verification methods to access an online account. For instance, multi-factor authentication requires more information than just a login and password.
For instance, it asks for an additional one-time password that is sent to the user’s phone number or email address by the website’s authentication servers.
