The IoT is an interconnected system of physical devices, sensors, software, and networks. This system allows the collection and exchange of data between the devices and networks inside of it.
IoT aims to make a more connected world in which systems and devices can communicate with each other effortlessly, automate tasks easily, and perform better.
In the world of IoT, one aspect is vital: the security measures. IoT security keeps the connected devices, infrastructure, users, and networks safe and prevents data leaks.
Safeguarding the connected world has become essential due to the susceptibility of IoT devices to hackers’ attacks. Unfortunately, the number of IoT cyber attacks globally amassed to more than 112 million in 2022.
IoT security is a multilevel cybersecurity strategy whose aim is to keep IoT devices and networks safe from cyber attacks and prevent data leaks and breaches.
The need for strong IoT security arises due to the lack of built-in security in IoT devices and the fact that many of them weren’t created with security in mind.
A lot of these interconnected devices transfer data over the internet without encryption and are undetected by the standard systems for cybersecurity. Moreover, a lot of IoT devices don’t have the option for installation of security software.
Some of them may contain malware that will infect the network to which they’re going to connect. This is why implementing the right IoT security measures is pivotal.
Secure IoT solutions are the key to the safe use of IoT devices and the prevention of data leaks and cyberattacks.
The good news is that companies can implement a set of tools and technologies that may help better their protocols for data protection and the security of devices.
Let’s check out some of the best IoT security practices:
Good preparation during the design phase for potential security risks and issues with the IoT devices is important.
Proper research and development in this phase will help improve and implement necessary security aspects, including a secure operating system and safe hardware.
Experienced IoT developers are aware of the cybersecurity vulnerabilities in every part of the development, not just in the design phase, and address them properly.
Unsafe networks are hackers’ favorite way to access systems and gain control over IoT devices. As networks include both physical and digital elements, IoT security measures need to address them both.
A safe IoT network should include port security, disabling port forwarding, firewalls, blocking unauthorized IP addresses, and regular system updates.
A lot of data is shared and collected in an IoT network. Often, this data is sensitive, especially when it contains personal information that could be abused such as data of patients in healthcare.
With this in mind, it’s pivotal to use strong and complex passwords on each device in the system and update them regularly. This maximizes their effectiveness and reduces the risk of data breaches.
Other tools for data protection are strong encryptions and firewalls or systems for the detection of intrusions.
PKI helps secure the client-and-server connections between several network devices.
With a two-key asymmetric cryptosystem, PKI eases the encryption and decryption of private messages and interactions via digital certificates.
These systems safeguard the clear text information users put into websites when making private transactions. PKI security is a vital part of E-commerce.
APIs are the staple of sophisticated websites.
For example, they’re used by travel agencies to gather flight information from various airlines in one place.
But, hackers may attack these communication channels and this is why API security is so important for the protection of data exchanged between IoT devices and systems.
In this way, only authorized devices, apps, and developers can communicate with APIs.
One great example of the consequences of poor API security is T-Mobile’s 2018 data breach during which the personal data of more than 2 million customers was exposed.
Security gateways between the IoT devices and the network offer more processing power, capabilities, and memory than the IoT devices.
As such, they can be used for the implementation of important features like firewalls to prevent unauthorized access to IoT devices.
Updating IoT devices and software regularly with the help of network connections or automation is pivotal.
When devices are up-to-date, addressing vulnerabilities and threats will be more effective.
IoT staff needs to stay up-to-date with new systems, learn new programming languages and architectures, and be ready for upcoming security challenges.
Regular cybersecurity training is essential for cybersecurity and C-level teams so that they can stay knowledgeable about the best current security measures.
Maintaining the IoT ecosystem secure is a joint effort between IoT device makers, service providers, and end-users. Strong security measures, IoT security awareness, and regular maintenance are vital for a safer connected world.
If you’re eager to discover how you can promote secure IoT solutions in your company, consult our IT experts at ArtHaus. We’ve been providing effective and within-budget solutions to clients and enabling them to gain an advantage over their competitors for more than two decades.
