IoT Security: How to Keep Your Connected Devices Safe

The Internet of Things (IoT) offers many conveniences by connecting devices and allowing them to exchange data. However, with great connectivity comes great responsibility to secure these devices. As an IoT user, I need to be aware of IoT security risks and best practices to keep my connected devices and data safe.

The Growth of IoT Devices

The number of connected IoT devices is growing at a staggering rate. There will be over 75 billion IoT devices by 2025, up from about 7 billion in 2018. As more devices like smart home assistants, security cameras, and wearables connect to the internet, the potential attack surface for hackers expands.

With so many connected devices, many with poor security standards and vulnerabilities, the risk of security incidents rises. Unsecured IoT devices can be co-opted into massive botnets, as demonstrated by the Mirai botnet attack in 2016. Hackers can also exploit vulnerabilities in a single IoT device to infiltrate entire corporate or home networks.

Securing the billions of IoT devices out there today and in the future is an enormous challenge. But as an IoT user, I need to do my part to improve my own security.

Common IoT Security Risks

There are several common security risks to be aware of in my IoT devices:

• Weak default passwords – Many devices come with simple default credentials like admin/admin or 1234. These are easy for hackers to guess.

• Lack of encryption – IoT devices may transmit data unencrypted, allowing hackers to “eavesdrop” on the network traffic.

• Unpatched firmware vulnerabilities – Manufacturers don’t always issue patches for known flaws in device firmware. Hackers can exploit these vulnerabilities to take control.

• Insecure data storage – IoT devices may store personal data like WiFi passwords and my location unencrypted. A breach exposes this sensitive data.

• Lack of device authentication – Without mutual authentication, my IoT devices can’t verify the identity of devices they are communicating with, leaving them open to infiltration.

Securing My IoT Devices

Here are key steps I should take to improve security on my IoT devices:

Use Strong Passwords

• Change default credentials to unique passwords that are long and complex.

• Use a different password for every device.

• Update passwords regularly – at least every 3 months.

Enable Encryption

• Check device settings for available encryption options like WPA2 wireless encryption.

• Enable SSL/TLS encryption for web/app interfaces.

• Use VPN encryption for traffic between IoT devices and cloud services.

Install Updates and Patches

• Enable auto-update options in device settings, if available.

• Check the manufacturer’s website regularly for firmware updates and install them.

• Register IoT devices to get notified about the latest security patches.

Connect IoT Devices to a Separate Network

• Place IoT devices on a separate WiFi network segment than other devices.

• Use a separate Virtual Local Area Network (VLAN) for IoT.

Monitor Network Traffic

• Use firewall and intrusion detection systems to identify unusual IoT traffic patterns.

• Monitor IoT network traffic for signs of compromised credentials or botnet activity.

• Conduct regular vulnerability scans of IoT devices.

Conclusion

With good security practices, I can reap the benefits of IoT devices while reducing risks. I should change default passwords, enable encryption, install updates, isolate the IoT network segment, and monitor traffic diligently. Securing the IoT landscape requires vigilance from both manufacturers and end users. By taking appropriate security measures, I can do my part to safely enjoy my connected things.