How Smart Devices are Getting Smarter

The Internet of Things grows larger with every passing day, and with so many connected devices with Internet functionality entering the world, one has to wonder how this impacts cybersecurity. Let’s take a look at what could potentially be changing as the Internet of Things expands its borders and scope.

The Projections for the IoT

It’s estimated that 127 new IoT devices connect to the Internet every second, and with the numbers swelling to 75 billion by the year 2025, there are countless opportunities for cybercriminals to exploit them. Even commercial Internet of Things devices are not safe from the attacks of hackers.

For one example of how this growth has impacted cybersecurity, turn to 2017, when the United Kingdom’s National Health Service—including its Internet-connected medical devices—was struck by ransomware. Furthermore, video doorbells will often stream data without protections, and smart home devices have been known to store wireless network credentials in a similar way.

The question then becomes, how do you secure an infrastructure with so many weaknesses in it?

What Can Be Done to Secure the IoT?

There are many ways you can solve the IoT security crisis, one of which is the Internet of Things Cybersecurity Improvement Act of 2020 in the United States. This piece of legislation introduced IoT industry-specific standards and shows that governments understand that this is a problem which must be addressed. Despite these movements, it’s important still to do all you can for the sake of your own business, such as the following:

Encrypt Data

Relatively speaking, few IoT devices utilize encryption to protect their data. Implementing it on a network level can be an effective tool for keeping data secure, especially while it’s moving back and forth on the network or between devices.

Change Default Passwords on IoT Devices

All default passwords should be changed, especially on IoT devices that often use the device model as the default password. Just come up with a secure password and you are already leagues ahead of where so many others are.

Use Devices from Security-Conscious Manufacturers

One way your company and its users can make security a priority is by simply looking at the manufacturers you work with. Supporting those that make security a priority will aid you in the long run, and it will encourage others to follow suit when you put your money where your mouth is.

OnSite I.T. can help your business secure its IoT devices and network. To learn more, reach out to us at (403) 210-2927.