Does IoT Really Need Security?

Here are the Most Common Internet of Things (IoT) Security Risks:

There are a variety of dangers related to the internet of things that can impact businesses as well as individuals. We will describe 11 of the most common Internet of Things security risks so that you can take steps to protect your business and its stakeholders.

Incorrect access control

IoT devices often trust the networks they are connected to, often to an inappropriate level requiring no authentication or authorization. Other devices connected to the network are also trusted without any requirements.

Increased attack surface

Every connection that can be made to the device allows an attacker to potentially discover and exploit vulnerabilities. The more services a device offers, the bigger the attack platform becomes. Offering unnecessary or unneeded services over the Internet can potentially compromise confidentiality, integrity and availability of that information.

No or weak encryption

Devices with lax security often communicate in plain text. This means that sensitive information like API tokens or credentials can be obtained through a “Man in the Middle” (MITM) attack. A MITM attack is where an attacker secretly accesses and relays communications, possibly altering this communication, without either party being aware.

Weaknesses in encryption may be present if the encryption is incorrectly configured or incomplete. An example would be a device failing to verify the authenticity of the other party. The cheapest solution is usually not the best, do your research.

Weak physical security

Security for IoT devices is not about digital security, physical security also represents a significant risk. Consumer and industrial IoT devices often store sensitive information. Information used as passwords of wireless networks is connected to or event sensitive video or audio information related to the company, home, or user(s).
With physical access to the devices, attackers can open them and bypass security software by reading the contents of the memory components directly.

Weak passwords

Weak passwords selected by the user or vendor, and device hardcoded passwords that can not be changed, also represent a significant security risk. Use unique passwords for your devices, make them at least 12 characters long, use numbers, symbols, and letters (upper and lower case). Adopting a good policy towards what represents a strong password will greatly reduce the chance of the password being guessed or brute-forced.

Conclusion

When it comes to the security of your home and organization, you should do your best to ensure that it is at a sufficient level. You can’t always rely on the IoT device supplier. Since Internet of Things devices are rapidly taking over our world, more awareness and know-how is needed to incorporate IoT security into our routine.