Internet of Things (IoT) security is a crucial aspect of today’s digital world, where countless devices are connected to the internet to exchange data and automate processes. These networks of smart devices range from household gadgets to industrial systems and medical equipment.
IoT security focuses on protecting these devices and the data they generate from cyber threats such as unauthorized access, data breaches, and malware. As the connectivity and complexity of IoT networks continue to grow, robust security becomes increasingly important to ensure the integrity, confidentiality, and availability of information.
I see the security of an IoT product as a chain.
If even one link in the chain breaks, the entire chain is at risk.
And when even the simplest IoT-connected device offers a wide range of attack surfaces, weak security can result in an unsafe situation, a data breach, downtime, and significant damage to a company’s reputation.
Securing IoT environments requires considering all elements in the chain: hardware, sensors, protocols, software, manufacturer portals, connected devices, accounts, cloud services, user apps, web interfaces, and voice control.
Such extensive interaction and connection make controlling security challenging and often underestimated.
Security starts with a suitable architecture that matches your unique IoT needs.
There is no one-size-fits-all approach suitable for all organizations. Hardware, software, and connectivity must all be secure for IoT devices to operate effectively. IoT product security must be an end-to-end consideration, with the best security practices taken into account at every step of the design and throughout the product’s long-term lifecycle.
More than just a technical solution
Securing IoT is more than just a technical solution.
IoT security is constantly evolving, with new vulnerabilities being regularly discovered, making it a journey rather than a destination.
This is the reality for many organizations now using IoT as part of their operational technology, leveraging the monitoring and security capabilities of the vendor. As trust grows in the ability of the technology to deliver innovation, efficiency, and usability, such applications are increasingly deployed in more critical parts of business operations.
The downside of this advancement is that as everything becomes an internet-connected device, cybersecurity becomes everything security.
Any organization using IoT devices or relying on services provided by such organizations must understand that they can be targeted through these IoT devices by criminal organizations or malicious actors. The more they rely on these devices, the more they become a target. “We are not a target” is never a completely safe assumption.
Not sure where to start?
Not sure where to start for your organization? Wanscale and its value-added partners have deep expertise in IoT security to support your organization with these challenges.
If you need a brainstorming session and would like to exchange experiences, please let me know.
Rens Braak
