Best Practices For Securing Enterprise IoT Devices

promotion 

The Internet of Things (IoT) is a device that sends and receives information through the Internet. It runs specific applications from smart TVs to kitchen appliances. The main benefit of IoT devices is their connectivity, which enables users to access information and control the devices from anywhere at any time.

However, most users leave their credentials on IoT devices which exposes them to attackers. This article details the challenges of IoT devices and the best practices for securing their cybersecurity.

Understanding IoT Security

IoT security means protecting the networks and internet devices from data breaches and online threats. This is attained by identifying, tracking, and resolving potential security vulnerabilities. At its core, IoT security involves keeping the IoT system secure. To keep your IoT secure, It’s crucial to choose the right enterprise cloud security to ensure that only authorized individuals can access your cloud environments.

Challenges and Concerns of IoT Security

IoT security challenges include:

  • Default passwords resulting in brute-forcing:  Most IoT devices have built-in default passwords that are mostly weak. Login details and weak passwords can result in IoT devices prone to password brute-forcing and hacking.
  • IoT ransomware and malware:  In recent years, there has been a rise in demand for IoT-connected devices. Therefore, the potential risks of ransomware and malware has also increased. 
  • Data privacy problems:  Firstly, the data is collected, communicated, kept, and processed by Internet of Things devices. Most of the time, third parties can access or sell this data. Most users do not go through the mode of service before using IoT devices. 
  • The COVID-19 pandemic contributed to an increase in remote working worldwide.  In spite of the fact that IoT devices have made it possible for many users to work from home, home networks are often not as secure as those in organizations. IoT security vulnerabilities have thus been highlighted due to its increased usage.

Best Practices for Securing IoT Devices

To secure IoT devices and networks, here are the practical tips to consider:

1. Stay Updated With Software Updates

Make sure that a supplier provides updates when you purchase an IoT device, and apply them immediately. Using out-of-date IoT software makes a device vulnerable to hacking. Your Internet of Things may send you automated updates, or you might have to check with them by visiting the manufacturer’s website.

2. Change Default Passwords

Most people use similar passwords and logins for every device. Whereas it’s easier for individuals to remember, it’s also possible for cyberattackers to hack. Ensure every login and password is special and constantly change the default password on every new device. Don’t use similar passwords across devices. 

3. Use Strong Passwords

It is recommended to use a strong and long password with at least twelve characters. Ideally, your password should contain a combination of characters including lower to upper-case letters, symbols or numbers. Don't use obvious numbers or personal details like your pet's name or your date of birth.

4. Allow Multi-Factor Authentication 

Multi-factor authentication (MFA) is a method that requests users to give two or more methods of verification to access a digital account. For instance, instead of requesting for a password or a username, the MFA method goes beyond asking for an extra one-time password that is sent to the user’s email address through the website’s authentication servers.

Endnote

Securing your IoT devices can be challenging, but by following these best security practices, you can improve the chances of your success. Ensure to use strong passwords, stay updated with software updates, and enable multi-factor authentication. Ultimately, categorize your network to reduce the interconnectivity of your entire environment.

Image: TheDigitalArtist

The US Security Standard For IoT Devices:

___________________________________________________________________________________________

If you like this website and use the comprehensive 6,500-plus service supplier Directory, you can get unrestricted access, including the exclusive in-depth Directors Report series, by signing up for a Premium Subscription.

  • Individual £5 per month or £50 per year. Sign Up
  • Multi-User, Corporate & Library Accounts Available on Request

Cyber Security Intelligence: Captured Organised & Accessible


 

« CEO Of OpenAI Is Dismissed
Bridging The Gap Between Cybersecurity & Business Goals »

Infosecurity Europe
CyberSecurity Jobsite
Perimeter 81

Directory of Suppliers

IT Governance

IT Governance

IT Governance is a leading global provider of information security solutions. Download our free guide and find out how ISO 27001 can help protect your organisation's information.

DigitalStakeout

DigitalStakeout

DigitalStakeout enables cyber security professionals to reduce cyber risk to their organization with proactive security solutions, providing immediate improvement in security posture and ROI.

Authentic8

Authentic8

Authentic8 transforms how organizations secure and control the use of the web with Silo, its patented cloud browser.

XYPRO Technology

XYPRO Technology

XYPRO is the market leader in HPE Non-Stop Security, Risk Management and Compliance.

TÜV SÜD Academy UK

TÜV SÜD Academy UK

TÜV SÜD offers expert-led cybersecurity training to help organisations safeguard their operations and data.

AON

AON

Aon is a leading global provider of risk management (including cyber), insurance and reinsurance brokerage, human resources solutions and outsourcing services.

CionSystems

CionSystems

CionSystems provides identity, access and authentication solutions to improve security and streamline IT infrastructure management.

Lares Consulting

Lares Consulting

Lares is a security consulting firm that helps companies secure electronic, physical, intellectual, and financial assets through a unique blend of assessment, testing and coaching.

Norwegian Business & Industry Security Council (NSR)

Norwegian Business & Industry Security Council (NSR)

NSR is a member organization serving the Norwegian business sector in an advisory capacity on matters relating to crime and security including cyber.

Coursera

Coursera

Coursera provides universal access to the world’s best education, partnering with top universities and organizations to offer courses online. Subject areas include Computer Security & Networks.

Pentagon Group

Pentagon Group

Pentagon Group is a provider of security services in high-risk environments, remote areas and emerging markets in support of land-based, aviation, maritime and cyber operations.

4Stop

4Stop

4Stop is a global KYC, compliance and anti-fraud risk management company.

Kippeo Technologies

Kippeo Technologies

Kippeo is a security systems integrator providing innovative solutions that look at all the parameters and connect all the dots.

German Israeli Partnership Accelerator (GIPA)

German Israeli Partnership Accelerator (GIPA)

GIPA is based on two pillars: it is an incubator aimed at young academics and a program to transfer cybersecurity expertise to corporate partners.

M12

M12

M12 (formerly Microsoft Ventures) is the corporate venture capital subsidiary of Microsoft.

SafeTech Informatics & Consulting

SafeTech Informatics & Consulting

Safetech's OTShield detects, prevents and analyses cyber-attacks in SCADA and Industrial IoT systems by utilising state of the art deception techniques.

Stealth Software Technologies

Stealth Software Technologies

Stealth Software Technologies is focused on the generation of research and software products focused on applied cryptography and cybersecurity.

SEIRIM

SEIRIM

SEIRIM delivers cybersecurity solutions in Shanghai China specializing in Web Application Security, Network Security for SME's, Vulnerability Management, and serving as Managed Security as a Service.

Secrutiny

Secrutiny

Scrutiny's core services include Cyber Maturity, Cyber Risk Analyser, Cyber Controls, Incident Response, SOC, Cyber Recovery and Assurance Testing.

Scope AI

Scope AI

Scope AI is an innovative technology company specializing in quantum security and machine learning.

Nexsan

Nexsan

Nexsan offers versatile and robust data storage solutions tailored to adapt seamlessly across a diverse range of sectors, ensuring reliable performance for critical data management.