The Internet of Things (IoT) market is growing fast. It is evident due to the long list of benefits, but unfortunate risks that come along as well. That’s why wanted to emphasize today the huge gap there is in IoT devices and their connection to cybersecurity.
If you just heard or read about the Internet of Things (IoT) technology, then let me present to you the concept and then, in a macro view, the benefits and IoT security risks, challenges, vulnerabilities, or concerns (whatever you want to call it).
In short words, IoT devices are just like normal home or office devices but can connect to the internet to interact with each other, through the collection and exchange of data. That’s why some are categorized as Smart Home devices.
While this technology can and will ease/improve your daily lives (capable of being used in more diverse ways than traditional devices, with specific functions), it may also be the gate to your valuable private data and personal information to become compromised.
So, let’s look at the full picture and see what are the factors that make IoT security so essential nowadays.
What are IoT Security Issues in 2022?
If IoT devices can connect (and also affect) both virtual and physical systems, then cyber attacks targetting these could have far more critical consequences.
Exposed smart home devices could allow bad actors to hack and monitor your household or penetrate security locks. Even worse, an attack targeting IIoT devices (Industrial Internet of Things) could make it possible for hackers to boycott entire machinery processes.
Are you convinced that Iot cyber security is a must and strict IoT security standards must be followed in 2022’s IoT security market?
Let’s see what IoT security challenges or concerns businesses are prone to now.
1) Hijacking –
As it was mentioned recently, Internet of Things devices doesn’t have the strongest security measures desirable, so tech ranging from wearable pieces to healthcare machinery can be hijacked at any time.
2) No Testing or Updates –
What happens when manufacturers are in a hurry to create a product and release it as fast s possible, without giving testing much thought? Many get surprised by security breaches due to their trust/convincement that this won’t happen to them-
But it might, although it doesn’t have to. For example, keep an eye on the consistency of IoT device’s updates are ran or possible downtimes once your device is connecting to the cloud during that time.
3) Rogue And Counterfeit –
There’s one big upside (and an even bigger downside) to connecting all of your devices into a single network (like your home network). The bad side is, to help bad actors get in through a single rogue device, into your whole set of smart devices.
4) Mismanagement & Misconfiguration –
Not everything bad that happens to us is others’ fault. Sometimes, someone’s IoT device mismanagement can advance cyber security threats into your home or business infrastructure.
So, if you’re having trouble setting up IoT products, don’t doubt contacting the manufacturing company for help. Alternatively, us (MyITGuy) for guidance or configuration!
5) Remote Access –
Can you imagine a scenario as stressful as the following one: your smart car getting intruded while you drive on the highway or your smart home being invaded while you’re not there?
Don’t risk yourself getting into those highly dangerous but very real scenarios!
6) Lack of Standards and Best Practices –
The IoT cyber security industry, being introduced in a relatively recent time, lacks standards and best practices in comparison with other ones related to tech. In the meantime, it’s quite scarce the amount of information about it you can find from agencies and experts.
7) Lack of Awareness –
And last, but not least – It’s the lack of awareness among people (including some IT teams) have around the topic. While most of the cyber security topics (virus, malware, phishing, scams) are covered nowadays in mid-size to large-size businesses, IoT security is still to explored.
This connects with the previous point: that there’s not as much detailed information about it shared publicly. Who’s to blame, really?
There’s no need to point fingers. Instead, let’s take the time to learn.
So, what are the possible IoT security solutions available in 2022?
IoT Security Solutions in 2022
While there’s no instant fix to any of the IoT security issues and vulnerabilities mention above, there are plenty of options that possibly solve whatever challenge you’re facing right now.
Take into account that most need products, platforms, services, tools, and complex strategies to be solved, but the following shortlist of best practices is the best way to prevent iot security risks.
1 – Secure your Network (Authenticate & Encrypt)
While it may sound obvious, not every IT apartment or agency takes the time to secure every entry point of your network consisting of IoT devices. Luckily enough, in most cases, this only means using antivirus or anti-malware software properly.
To authenticate is to make use of user management features in every single IoT device. Not necessarily passwords but passwordless authentication as well. Click on the link to check the guide we just wrote about it!
Or take advantage of API methods and security analytics solutions, then go back to sleep.
2 – Test the Hardware
Right before and after the installation of your IoT device/s, you should test its capacity, latency, and range, among other things (including, especially, the security front and back-ends).
Manufacturers will take care of most of the hardware reinforcement but it’s up to you to secure the gateways and keep the bad actors out of your IoT devices.
3 – Beware of IoT Product Updates & Latest Threats
Remember when we said many manufacturers often rush into launching IoT devices before it was fully secured? Well, if that’s the reality in most markets (including cyber security) then it’s your task to find if it has the last update released.
Also, if there have been any IoT security breaches occurring somewhere. Not only you can learn a lot from these cases, but also serve you as an early warning on what to do or most importantly, what NOT to do.
I know it sounds harsh and negative, but there’s good news.
Every IoT security issue has solutions, doesn’t matter the type of gadget or industry where it’s used. That’s why at MyITGuy, we’ve decided to include it in our set of solutions.
Contact us now and we’ll work with you to find a custom, cost-effective solution.
It’s for you if you’re thinking about getting IoT devices or if you have/them already.