IoT Security – Protecting Your Connected Devices

As the Internet of Things (IoT) continues to expand, securing IoT devices has become increasingly important. Unsecured IoT devices can be compromised and used in cyber attacks. In this article, I will discuss key strategies and best practices for protecting your connected devices against cyber threats.

Understand the IoT Security Risks

The growing network of connected IoT devices presents new attack surfaces for hackers. Some key IoT security risks include:

• Weak default credentials – Many IoT devices ship with default, hard-coded usernames and passwords that are easily guessable. This allows attackers to gain access to the device.

• Lack of encryption – Data transmitted from IoT devices may not be encrypted, allowing attackers to intercept sensitive information.

• Unsecured network services – Exposing unused ports and services on an IoT device provides opportunities for attackers to find their way in.

• Software vulnerabilities – Outdated software and firmware contains bugs and weaknesses that can be exploited.

• Lack of updates – Manufacturers don’t always issue security patches for known vulnerabilities. Unpatched devices are prime targets.

These inherent risks mean that attackers can compromise IoT devices and leverage them for larger attacks.

Practice Defense in Depth

The most effective approach to IoT security is defense in depth. This involves deploying multiple layers of security to protect devices, data, and networks:

Secure the Device

• Change default credentials – Upon setup, immediately change default usernames and passwords to strong, unique ones.

• Disable unnecessary services – Turn off any unused network services and ports that could provide an entry point.

• Perform firmware updates – Download latest firmware updates to patch known flaws. Enable auto-updates if available.

• Use physical controls – Store IoT devices in locked locations to prevent physical tampering when possible.

Secure the Network

• Firewall IoT devices – Place IoT devices on isolated network segments and control traffic with firewall policies.

• Disable remote access – Block remote admin interfaces and restrict management access to the local network only.

• Encrypt traffic – Use virtual private networks (VPNs), Transport Layer Security (TLS), or Internet Protocol Security (IPSec) to encrypt data in transit.

• Monitor for threats – Use network monitoring tools to watch for suspicious traffic and connections.

Secure the Data

• Encrypt data – Encrypt data generated by IoT devices in storage and when transmitting over networks.

• Restrict data access – Only allow IoT data access on a need-to-know basis for personnel and applications.

• Backup data – Maintain backups of IoT device data in case of malware attacks.

Maintain Vigilance

• Audit routinely – Continuously monitor devices and networks to identify gaps in security controls.

• Educate employees – Train staff on risks, proper usage, and how to spot IoT security issues.

• Update defenses – Keep up with emerging threats and update security tools, policies, and procedures accordingly.

Choosing Secure IoT Devices

When purchasing new IoT devices, also consider the following:

• Look for devices that allow username and password changes. Avoid default credentials.

• Ensure the device encrypts network communications and stored data.

• Select devices that receive ongoing firmware and security updates from the vendor.

• Favor well-known brands that prioritize security in their devices.

• Check if the device has built-in security features, like firewalls or intrusion detection.

• Verify that the device does not have any unauthorized remote access enabled out of the box.

Carefully vetting devices before purchase reduces the risk of introducing insecure IoT products onto your network.

Securing Consumer IoT Devices

Consumers also need to be mindful of securing the growing number of IoT devices in their smart homes. Here are some key steps to protect home IoT:

• Change the default admin credentials on your Wi-Fi router. Use a strong password.

• Review the privacy and security settings for your smart home hub, virtual assistants, IP cameras, and other connected gadgets. Disable features that expose personal data.

• Configure your wireless router to isolate IoT devices on a separate network segment using VLANs or firewall rules. This prevents IoT devices from accessing other devices on your primary home network.

• Frequently patch and update the firmware on all network-connected devices in your home. Don’t let them fall out of date.

• Consider placing IoT devices that do not require Internet access, like smart thermometers, on a completely isolated standalone network with no Internet connectivity.

• Monitor children and guests’ usage of IoT devices to ensure security features are not being disabled or improperly configured.

With vigilance and proper security habits, consumers can confidently embrace IoT technologies in the smart home without undue risk.

Conclusion

In our increasingly connected world, IoT security cannot be an afterthought. It must be a priority. With attacks on IoT devices rising, organizations must take steps to harden devices, monitor networks, control access, encrypt data, and implement sound security policies and controls. Staying ahead of emerging threats and diligently managing IoT security is critical for reducing risk as we rely on connected technologies more and more.