15 billion worldwide-that’s the number of connected IoT devices, and it’s expected to double by 2030.
The Internet of Things (IoT) may have revolutionized how we live and work with connected devices, but with this increase in connectivity comes added security challenges.
In this guide to IoT security issues and solutions, we’ll discuss common IoT security problems-and more importantly, how to solve them and prevent your organization from a malicious security attack. Keep reading to learn how to protect your business.
Botnet Attacks
Botnet attacks are common IoT attacks. A botnet refers to an infected group of devices that are under the control of a malicious actor. From there, they can be used to attack IoT devices.
The greater the number of connected devices, the larger the impact they can have on your organization.
Botnet attacks can be prevented in several ways: by using stronger passwords, keeping software up to date, using a VPN, and deactivating dormant applications, you can prevent these attacks.
Insecure APIs
IoT devices often rely on APIs to retrieve and share data. Unfortunately, this can be a security weak link. API attacks come in many forms, such as Man in the Middle (MitM), injection attacks, authentication hijacking, DoS/DDoS attacks (distributed denial of service attacks), and more.
By securing APIs, an organization can prevent API hacking. Depending on the API, this could be done via encrypting traffic or practicing the principle of lease privilege. Your organization should also inventory and manage your APIs. You may have dozens or even hundreds of APIs you are using throughout your organization, so inventorying them ensures you are aware of what APIs are in use.
The rise of digital banking and finance services has led to an increase in API attacks and financial crimes, making the banking vertical one of the most attacked.
Poor Physical Security
When we think of IOT devices, we naturally think of their vulnerabilities due to their connection to the internet. However, neglecting physical security is another challenge. A physical attack on an IoT device could include theft, tampering, or destruction.
Physical security measures such as cameras and locks ensure devices are safe and monitored. The latter is part of access control, a security technique regulating who can access or use devices.
Physical security for IoT devices can also start sooner. Tamper-evident packaging can indicate if a device has been tampered with prior to reaching its final destination. Tamper-evident packaging is most common in the pharmaceutical industry, but it can also be applied to other industries.
Finally, physical security ends with asset disposition. Asset disposition ensures that your legacy hardware is safely retired.
Get Help With IoT Security Issues and Solutions
It’s no secret that IoT security issues are constantly evolving, and new threats pop up all the time. That’s why you need a partner who understands IoT security issues.
CloudZen Partners is a leading expert in cybersecurity. We are 100% vendor-agnostic, and our intimate knowledge of security enables us to recommend the best solutions for your enterprise.
Do you have questions about IoT security issues and solutions? We can help. Give us a call at 1-800-717-0106 or schedule a discovery call and talk shop about all things cybersecurity.