Even if you’re not familiar with it by name alone, chances are you’ve still encountered the internet of things (IoT) in some shape or form in your day-to-day life. IoT is the term used to describe how many modern devices connect to each other and the internet in order to bring you a seamless user experience. Think of how your phone might work alongside your smartwatch, your speakers, or even your thermostat.
So much interconnectivity can be incredibly useful, but as well as the numerous benefits, it also poses significant challenges to personal security.
What Is the Internet of Things and Why Does it Matter?
Any devices that can interact and exchange data via the internet is part of the IoT. This is achieved through sensors, software, and other technologies, some of which are more advanced than others. As mentioned, most people will have experienced the IoT through household items, but it’s also used in industrial machines and medical equipment.
It provides an enhanced level of automation, data collection, and control over our devices – but any time data is being shared — especially over the internet — there are opportunities for data breaches.
How IoT is Threatening Personal Security
How does the issue of cybersecurity relate to the internet of things? Essentially, any device connected to the internet can act as an entry point for cybercriminals, increasing the risk of security breaches and unauthorized data access. While many IoT devices are designed with convenience and cost in mind, they often lack the robust security measures present in smartphones and computers, making them easier to exploit.
A lot of people don’t understand the threat this could pose. For example, a hacker finding out how many steps you’ve taken today from your smartwatch might not seem like a big deal. However, someone watching your property through your doorbell camera could be far more serious.
Common security threats in IoT devices
Here is a roundup of some of the main threats to IoT devices:
- Weak security measures — Weak passwords, a lack of data encryption, and dated authentication protocols mean that some devices can easily be hacked, granting attackers access to your personal network.
- Unpatched software — IoT devices are less likely to receive the regular updates and security patches that our phones and computers do.
- DDoS attacks — IoT devices are prime targets for botnet recruitment and Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attacks, .affecting both the performance of your devices and your overall network security.
Steps to Protect Your IoT Devices and Personal Data
Understanding the risks is the first step to better protection. Here are some important steps you should take to secure your IoT devices and protect your personal data.
Secure your IoT network with device monitoring and maintenance
- Change any default passwords that come with your IoT devices. Passwords should always be unique and complex to prevent a hacker access to all of your devices. Where possible, enable two-factor authentication (2FA) as well.
- Stay on top of your software updates. Making sure your devices have had the latest security patches means hackers won’t get the chance to exploit any vulnerabilities.
- Secure your home network using a strong, encrypted Wi-Fi password. You could also consider creating a separate network for your IoT devices, reducing the risk of a single compromised device granting access to the data on your main network.
- Use a trusted antivirus software on your applicable devices: this will alert you to any attempted attacks that might also put your IoT devices at risk.
- Monitor your devices closely for any unusual behavior, and periodically review your security settings to make sure they’re exactly what you need.
- Turn off any unused features: this minimizes the attack surface and significantly reduces the risk of unauthorized access.
The Future of IoT and What it Means for Security
It’s likely that the future of the IoT will result in even more connected devices, smarter automation, and data-driven personalization. Many people live in entirely smart homes, where all of their electronics are connected through the IoT. It’s likely that more sophisticated forms of cyberattacks will emerge alongside the expansion of the IoT, designed specifically to take advantage of these ecosystems.
To counter these risks, developers need to prioritize security during the design phase of any and all IoT devices. This includes stronger encryption, enhanced device authentication methods, and consistent software updates. It’s also key that consumers stay informed about the risks and best security practices when negotiating the IoT.
Connect with everything, except criminals
Don’t let convenience come at the cost of security. Understanding the potential risks and taking steps to protect your data means that you can enjoy all of the benefits of a connected life without compromising your personal data. Boost your cybersecurity know-how with help from the experts at iolo.
