The Internet of Things (IoT) covers a wide range of devices, from smart appliances to connected cars and manufacturing equipment. As a result, many organizations find it challenging to manage IoT security, especially since IoT's diversity allows it to be used in different applications.
While the technology's flexibility provides users with countless devices to choose from, it is also directly responsible for raising potential vulnerabilities. For instance, the portability of some IoT devices can lead to a higher possibility of threats breaching multiple networks.
What Are the Most Common Challenges in IoT Security?
Businesses must prioritize IoT security to lessen the expanded attack surface of cyber threats and improve network security. The following are some of the most common IoT security challenges faced by companies today:
IoT Vulnerabilities
One of the primary reasons IoT devices are vulnerable is the lack of built-in security. It also does not help that many companies have a limited budget for secure firmware, partially due to the price point of modern devices.
Moreover, many IoT devices have unpatched vulnerabilities due to installation delays, accessibility issues, or lack of available patches. Bad actors can use these opportunities to breach networks and security systems.
Malware
While most IoT devices' computing power is limited, malicious software can still corrupt them. Cybercriminals have capitalized on this by using IoT botnet malware to bring down popular websites and services using everyday IoT devices. Other types of malware seen in IoT devices include cryptocurrency mining malware and ransomware.
Like malware, distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) attacks often target IoT devices. Compromised devices can infect connected systems or gain network access and spread through corporate servers.
Poor Device Management
Even the most protected IoT system can be breached if the user fails to understand proper device management. Protect IoT devices using strong password hygiene and recommended security measures to reduce cyber risks, especially in systems connecting to multiple IoT devices.
Data Protection
IoT devices generate massive amounts of data, making it challenging to manage and protect every bit of information. The high volume of data makes it almost impossible to create an accurate inventory of information assets, leading to visibility issues and potential vulnerabilities.
Possible Impacts of IoT Attacks
When cyberattacks hit the IoT, the consequences are not limited to internet-connected devices. The possible impacts of the attack can affect physical systems, especially in the industrial IoT space, where previous successful attacks have led to disastrous results.
For instance, in the healthcare industry, IoT devices monitor patients’ vital signs remotely. If a cyberattack penetrates the hospital's system, it will not only expose confidential patient information but also endanger the patient's health and safety.
Even smart home settings can be compromised through exposed devices. Once breached, cybercriminals can remotely monitor the household and control security devices like smart locks to cause major inconveniences to homeowners.
How To Strengthen IoT Security
Given the evolving nature of online security issues and threats, it is impossible to identify a single solution or strategy to address them all. Instead, security teams must rely on best practices to reduce risks and minimize adverse effects. Here are a few tips on how you can strengthen your IoT security:
Assign a specific team for IoT security administration.
It might not be feasible for every business to hire IoT security services, but they can take a step forward by assigning a specific team or person to monitor devices and networks. This practice can significantly help minimize IoT security risks and oversights by regularly checking for patches and updates.
Encourage employees to adopt robust security measures.
One of the advantages of training employees in cybersecurity is that they can serve as your first wall of defense against attacks. Advanced users can enable the router firewall to disable WPS and allow the WPA2 security protocol to further protect their systems.
Ensure that administrators can understand the different protocols used by your IoT devices.
Different IoT devices use varying internet and networking protocols to communicate. For instance, many systems use Bluetooth and Near Field Communication (NFC) protocols, but some devices rely on nRF24, nRFxx, 443MHz, LoRA, LoRaWAN, and infrared solutions for communication. Your system administrators must understand these protocols to reduce risks and prevent threats.
Manage the GPS usage of each IoT device.
Many IoT applications use GPS heavily, leading to potential security issues if left unchecked. Cybercriminals can jam or fake GPS signals and cause errors in positioning systems for manufacturing and monitoring products. Companies can address this using Real-Time Kinematic (RTK) or Differential GNSS (DGNSS or DGPS) systems.
Consider network segmentation.
Organizations can create a distinct network for internet-connected items and a separate one for visitors to reduce the probability of IoT-related security breaches. Additionally, network segregation can prevent the propagation of attacks and provide a way to isolate any devices that can't be immediately disconnected.
Utilize cloud-based technologies to boost cybersecurity.
Organizations can enhance their protection against cyber threats by ensuring a secure connection between their IoT and cloud services. Relying on cloud-based IoT solutions helps deliver added security while boosting the processing capabilities of IoT edge devices.
A Final Word on IoT Security Solutions
Companies often find it difficult to secure IoT devices and systems due to their limited ability to carry out necessary security measures. While some device settings can be hard to adjust due to needing specific permissions, users can explore multi-faceted security options, such as access control and data encryption, to ensure the safety of their networks.
Aside from employing the abovementioned security practices, organizations must also stay updated with new technological developments. Cybersecurity is being given heavier consideration due to modernization, and industries must continue to innovate game-changing IoT security tools to help users achieve secure and seamless integration.
