The Internet of Things (IoT) is very convenient and automated in our lives. However, the increase in connected devices is happening both rapidly and at scale, producing another extreme set of Cybersecurity challenges. IoT systems though are somewhat weak in their type of security mechanism, making them very attractive targets to cybercriminals in the form of these devices. To save IoT ecosystems, we have to learn the risks and use whole ecosystem security strategies.
Key Challenges of IoT Vulnerabilities
- Inadequate Security Measures: Almost all IoT devices are shipped with weak or default credentials.
- What manufacturers often do is that they should not compromise functionality for security, resulting in poor protection.
- Because users don’t change the default passwords that come on devices, they are ready for brute force attacks.
- Lack of Regular Updates: IoT devices often do not support software updates and patching.
- Older devices remain vulnerable to known exploits because security updates are not available consistently.
- Outdated vulnerabilities are something hackers are always due to their unpatched systems.
- Interconnected systems: IoT devices often integrate into broader networks, creating a ripple effect of vulnerabilities.
- A single compromised device can act as a gateway for attackers to access the entire network.
- IoT systems are not standardised; hence, attackers use different implementations of security.
Major Risks Associated with IoT
- Data Breach: IoT devices gather massive amounts of sensitive data, which contains personal and financial information.
- Compromised devices can thus provide unlawful access to personal information.
- Breaches can lead to identity theft, financial loss, and legal consequences.
- DDoS Attacks: IoT botnets have essentially been used to complete Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attacks.
- Attackers flood targeted servers with traffic using insecure devices that attackers control.
- High-profile DDoS attacks have disrupted major websites and services.
- Privacy Invasion: There is no doubt that all the smart cameras and voice assistants raise serious privacy issues.
- In fact, cybercriminals can hijack devices to eavesdrop or surveil a user.
- If the data collected by the IoT devices is not secured, it can be exploited.
Best Practices for Securing IoT Devices
- Change Default Credentials: Update factory-set usernames and passwords.
- Use strong, unique passwords on each device for greater protection.
- Where possible, enable multi-factor authentication (MFA).
- Regular Updates and Patches: Make sure that the devices have the latest version of software installed.
- Turn on automatic updates to protect the system from known vulnerabilities.
- Apply firmware updates from manufacturers when available.
- Network Segmentation: IoT devices should be isolated in a separate network.
- IoT networks should be created to prevent hackers from accessing critical systems.
- Strong encryption and Wi-Fi settings should be used to secure communication.
- Monitor and Audit: IoT devices should be continuously monitored for unusual activity
- Use network monitoring tools to detect any abnormal behaviour
- Audit device logs to learn about potential threats early.
Emerging Solutions in IoT Security
- AI-Based Threat Detection: Artificial Intelligence is increasingly used for real-time detection and mitigation of threats. AI can, even in big IoT networks, identify unusual patterns indicative of attacks.
- Blockchain for Data Integrity: Blockchain ensures data transmission with tamper-proof security. Decentralised authentication reduces breaches.
- Zero-Trust Architecture: A zero-trust model limits access to IoT devices and networks. Every device and user is treated as untrusted till verification.
Conclusion
With increased usage, more risk-prone connected devices with IoT continue to expand. Risks such as users or organisations taking adequate measures to defend it effectively could include important Cybersecurity measures involving passwords, updates, or even monitoring their networks. Emerging solutions offered by new technologies come from AI and blockchain.
The London School of Emerging Technology (LSET) offers a complete Cybersecurity Course designed to help you prepare for a wide range of IoT security problems. Be you an aspiring cyber security professional or looking forward to career advancement, this course will enable you to gain hands-on exposure and insights from experts.
FAQs
Q1. What are the vulnerabilities of IoT devices?
IoT devices are less updated, tend not to have good security and connect to larger networks, making them more exposed to attack.
Q2. How can someone secure their IoT devices at home?
Change the device’s default password, update software and use an alternative network for the IoT devices.
Q3. Are there monitoring tools for IoT device security?
Yes, network monitoring tools and firewalls can help to track suspicious activity and lock the IoT systems.
Q4. What is the role of blockchain in IoT security?
Blockchain is used for secure data communication and provides decentralised authentication with integrity.
Q5. Will LSET’s Cyber Security Course help me with IoT security?
Yes, LSET has covered IoT vulnerabilities and its practice strategies to secure connected devices.