Introduction
The Internet of Things (IoT) has transformed the way we interact with technology – and it is everywhere these days. So, what IoT devices do you use in your daily life?
Does your day start with an alarm, news updates or music on your smart speakers? Maybe your central heating operates via smart thermostats, or your lights and blinds operate automatically when you’re away on holiday. Does your refrigerator tell you when you’re running low on milk? And let’s not forget our trusty and trendy wearable tech that count our steps, track our GPS location and give us a low down on our vitals. How about cameras (or smart door bells) that not only monitor activity around our homes and businesses, but also help us keep an eye on pets.
While these connected devices offer undeniable convenience, they also introduce new security risks to your home and business networks. Understanding these risks and making informed decisions on how to responsibly incorporate smart tech into our lives is important. In this article, we’ll explore the potential risks of IoT and discuss practical solutions to safeguard your systems.
The Risks
Inadequate Security Measures
IoT devices often lack robust security features. Manufacturers prioritise functionality and ease of use over security, leaving vulnerabilities that cybercriminals can exploit. These devices may have default passwords, outdated firmware, or weak encryption, making them easy targets for attacks.
Data Privacy Concerns
IoT devices collect vast amounts of data, from personal health information to home automation preferences. If not properly secured, this data can be intercepted, leading to privacy breaches. Imagine a smart home camera leaking sensitive footage or a wearable fitness tracker exposing health data.
Botnets and DDoS Attacks
Compromised IoT devices can be harnessed into botnets, which cybercriminals use for Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attacks. These attacks overwhelm servers, causing downtime for websites and services. The infamous Mirai botnet, composed of IoT devices, disrupted major online platforms in 2016.
Lack of Device Management
Managing a large number of IoT devices can be challenging. Without proper oversight, devices may remain unpatched, exposing them to known vulnerabilities. Organisations struggle to keep track of firmware updates, leaving critical security gaps. A prime example would be a recently identified vulnerability in LG’s Smart TVs, whereby cybercriminals may potentially bypass authorisation and gain root level access to the intercepted device.
Mitigation Strategies
Secure Device Deployment
Make sure to immediately change default passwords on your IoT devices on installation and keep their software up to date. This helps protect against hackers who might try to access your devices or data. Also, consider using strong, unique passwords for each device to add an extra layer of security. Segment IoT devices from critical systems, using network segmentation features available on majority of mainstream (non-ISP) routers. Most importantly, use trusted and reliable installers with proven track record, to ensure that IoT devices are installed with security awareness and best practices. Opt for maintenance contracts to ensure that installers take responsibility for regular device health checks and security patch updates.
Data Encryption and Privacy
Be cautious about what data you share with your IoT devices. Disable any unnecessary features that collect personal information and review privacy settings to ensure you’re only sharing what you’re comfortable with. Learn about the security and privacy features of your IoT devices. Understand what data they collect and how it’s used. By staying informed, you can make better decisions about which devices to trust with your personal information.
Network Monitoring and Intrusion Detection
Work with trusted IT service providers for commercial environments, implementing network monitoring tools to detect unusual traffic patterns. Set up intrusion detection systems (IDS) to identify potential threats, and isolate compromised devices promptly to prevent further damage.
Use Trusted Vendors
Stick with well-known and reputable brands when purchasing IoT devices. These companies often invest more in security and are more likely to provide regular updates to fix vulnerabilities while continuing to provide software support to devices beyond end-of-life (EOL). Avoid cheap knockoff products that may compromise your security. Remember, cheaper devices tend to have a shorter product life cycle and will have very little security updates before EOL, and most likely lose their smart features or remain operationally vulnerable until compromised, after EOL.
Conclusion
As IoT adoption continues to grow, understanding the risks and implementing effective mitigation strategies is crucial. Whether you’re a homeowner or a business owner, prioritising security ensures a safer and more reliable IoT ecosystem. By following best practices and staying informed, we can harness the benefits of IoT without compromising our digital well-being. At Pinecone Technology, we work on the principle of security first. Technology is only beneficial when privacy and security can be assured. We offer comprehensive network security assessments and can help you create a secure environment for all your devices. Speak to our team of experts to explore how we can help your organisation safeguard your privacy.