IoT SECURITY CHALLENGES
Here are the top seven big worries when it comes to Internet of Things (IoT) security:
- Ransomware and Hijacking of IoT Devices: Bad guys can hijack and hold your IoT devices hostage until you pay up.
- Insufficient Testing and Lack of Updates: Some IoT gadgets aren’t thoroughly tested or regularly updated, making them easy targets for hackers.
- Home Invasions: Imagine someone breaking into your home by hacking into your smart locks or security systems. Scary stuff!
- IoT-Driven Financial Crime: Hackers can use IoT devices to pull off financial scams, like stealing your money or identity.
- Remote Smart Vehicle Access: Unauthorized access to connected cars can lead to car theft or even someone taking control of your vehicle.
- Rogue and Counterfeit IoT Devices: Beware of fake or shady IoT devices that can have hidden vulnerabilities or do things you don’t want them to do.
- Lack of User Awareness on IoT Security: Many folks don’t know enough about IoT security, which can lead to weak settings or falling for tricks by scammers.
These concerns show why we must take IoT security seriously and ensure our devices are updated, protected, and used wisely. Let’s take a look at how we can do that.
IoT SOLUTIONS – IoT AND PASSWORDS
Changing passwords regularly has become a standard practice for internet accounts, computers, and mobile devices. It’s about time we make it a norm for Internet of Things (IoT) devices too. To ensure the security of your IoT devices, here’s what you should do:
- Use Unique Passwords: Give each IoT device its own special password.
- Change Passwords Regularly: Make it a habit to change your IoT device passwords several times a year.
- Avoid Common and Generic Passwords: Stay away from easy ones like “123456” or “password.” Be creative and choose strong, hard-to-crack passwords.
- Create Complex Passwords: Make your passwords complex and tough to crack. Mix uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters. The harder, the better!
It’s important to remember that ransomware attacks can lock you out of your IoT devices, disable them, or even steal your precious data. Also, default passwords are often a target for hackers. To combat these risks, you can use a top-notch password manager tool to take control of your secure password system and keep your data safe from theft.
IoT SOLUTIONS – IoT AND CLOUD COMPUTING
Cloud technology is super convenient but it’s also a pretty vulnerable technology that can attract all sorts of attacks. When you buy IoT devices, you often get free cloud storage from the manufacturers. It’s tempting to use something that’s free, right? But here’s the deal:
- Active Connection Needed: You need an internet connection to access your cloud-stored data and files. That connection can be hacked into while you’re using your cloud account.
- Check Privacy Measures: Take a good look at the privacy info that comes with your cloud account. Go through it carefully and make sure you understand how your data is protected.
- Secure Your Data: Here’s a tip – consider keeping your important files and data on your own local storage instead of relying solely on the cloud. When you have data stored locally, those sneaky fraudsters can’t get their hands on it as easily.
IoT SOLUTIONS – UNIVERSAL PLUG AND PLAY
The Universal Plug and Play (UPnP) feature found in most IoT devices is a nifty way for devices to connect without hassle. You don’t have to individually configure each device, which is pretty convenient. But here’s the thing you should keep in mind:
- Local Network Dependency: UPnP relies on your local network to work its magic. And guess what? Those networks are like magnets for outside attacks. They can be easily accessed by the wrong people.
- Potential Impact of Attacks: If some sneaky attacker manages to breach your network, they can wreak havoc on multiple IoT devices. That means your devices could be compromised and controlled remotely.
To give yourself some peace of mind, consider turning off the Plug and Play feature on your IoT devices. It’s a simple step that can help reduce the risks of remote access and attacks.
IoT SOLUTIONS – SECONDARY NETWORK
When using WiFi, a lot of us create multiple networks. They have one for themselves and their families, and it’s restricted to just them. Now, here’s the cool part—you can apply this same idea to your IoT devices – and it brings some serious benefits:
- Keep Your Private Files Safe: By connecting your IoT devices to a separate network, you make sure that no unauthorized peeps can get their hands on your private files. It’s like putting up a “no entry” sign for intruders.
- Block Hackers and Malware: When your IoT devices have their own network, it’s harder for those sneaky hackers to hijack them or infect them with malware. It’s like building a fortress around your devices.
- Lock Out Outside Interference: Having a separate network for your IoT devices means that no outside entity can get in the way of your encrypted data. It’s like putting up a force field to protect your precious information.
IoT SOLUTIONS – UPDATES
A key concern with IoT security is the lack of updates. That’s why it’s crucial to have automatic updates in place. These help you stay protected by checking for official updates from the device manufacturer and installing necessary security patches. By doing so, you can prevent hackers from finding new and sneaky ways to intrude on your devices. Regular software updates for your IoT devices bring a host of benefits:
- Stay Ahead of Emerging Threats: When you keep your IoT software up to date, you can breathe easy knowing that you have the latest security measures in place. These updates include important patches that shield you from the newest forms of attacks.
- Boost Overall Security: By regularly updating your IoT devices, you’re giving your home or office an extra layer of protection. Closing any security gaps ensures a higher level of security for your entire environment.
DON’T STOP THERE
Check out these extra tips to keep your IoT devices and data safe and sound:
- Limit Access: Only give access to your IoT devices to trusted folks. Keep it exclusive and avoid sharing with just anyone.
- Use a Firewall: Set up a virtual wall to shield your IoT devices from internet baddies.
- Use Encryption: Make sure your data is encoded when it’s sent between your devices and the network.
- Train Employees: Teach your team about IoT security tricks, like spotting sketchy emails, using strong passwords, and being careful with new apps. They’ll be the Jedi Masters of IoT security!
- Use a Separate Network: Keep your IoT devices on their own special network, away from your main network for personal or business devices and data.
- Regular Backups: Back up your device settings and important data regularly. That way, if anything goes wrong, you won’t lose everything.
- Keep Software Up-to-Date: Always update your IoT device software. Those updates often come with security fixes to keep the bad actors out.
- Update Firmware Regularly: Don’t forget to update the firmware on your devices too. Firmware updates add extra layers of security and fix any bugs or glitches.
- Monitor for Suspicious Activity: Watch for any weird or suspicious activity on your IoT devices or network. If something doesn’t seem right, investigate it.
- Disable Unnecessary Features: Turn off any fancy features you don’t really need on your IoT devices. It’s like closing unnecessary doors to keep the troublemakers out.
- Be Smart on Public Networks: Be cautious when connecting your IoT devices to public networks, like those free Wi-Fi spots.
ULTIMATE IoT SOLUTIONS
IoT surely has a load of security issues. But for each one of these challenges, there are flexible and scalable solutions. And that’s where I can help. I have over 20 years of experience in professional business IT support for SMEs, specialising in cybersecurity and risk mitigation. I can also offer world-class cybersecurity advice and get your systems and business ready for a whole new world of IoT. Get in touch today. I’ll be right by your side, protecting your IoT devices and your data.