Could IoT Weaken Your Business Cyber Security? – Keep Your IoT Protected.
In modern businesses, connectedness and collaboration is paramount. Internet of Things (IoT) has revolutionized the ease at which employees can collaborate and how companies operate, offering unparalleled efficiency and control.
However, amidst this digital evolution, lies a threat – the vulnerability of IoT devices to cyberattacks. The more IoT a company has connected to their networks, the more opportunities cyber criminals have to infiltrate your systems. With an expected surge to 21 billion IoT devices in Australia alone by 2030, the urgency to fortify these devices against malicious actors has never been greater.
Understanding IoT Vulnerabilities
IoT devices, ranging from sensors to smart devices, create a complex web of connectivity that is both an advantage and a disadvantage. The very feature that enhances efficiency – interconnectedness – also serves as a potential gateway for hackers. Exploiting insecure networks, hackers can breach one device to gain access to the entire system. Shockingly, even inconspicuous entry points like fish tank thermometers have been exploited to infiltrate entire business networks.
Compounding this issue are lax security measures. Default passwords and settings are often left unchanged, providing hackers with easy access. Furthermore, outdated protocols and integration challenges exacerbate vulnerabilities, leaving businesses susceptible to attacks.
Securing Your IoT Network
Despite these challenges, proactive measures can mitigate the risks associated with increased IoT devices. Such as:
- Internal Network Isolation: Keep IoT devices on internal networks rather than exposing them to the open internet. By limiting external access, you minimize the avenues for potential attacks, safeguarding sensitive data.
- Strengthen Passwords: Replace default passwords with robust, unique alternatives. Implement multi-factor authentication (MFA) and restrict access to authorized personnel only. Customized security settings add an additional layer of defence against cyber threats.
- Disable Unused Features: Conduct a thorough audit of IoT devices to disable unnecessary features. Each deactivated feature reduces the attack surface, making it harder for hackers to exploit vulnerabilities.
- Partner with Secure Manufacturers: Prioritize IoT vendors that prioritize security and regularly update their devices. Research manufacturers’ security protocols and opt for those committed to addressing vulnerabilities promptly.
Strengthening Your Digital Network
Acknowledging the vulnerabilities of IoT devices and implementing proactive security measures, can harness the benefits of connectivity without compromising on safety.
If you would like to learn more about how to safeguard your IoT Click Here.