Connected devices, also known as the Internet of Things (IoT), refer to physical objects embedded with sensors, software, and other technologies that enable them to connect and exchange data with other devices and systems over the internet. These devices can range from everyday objects like smartphones, wearable devices, and home appliances to industrial machinery and infrastructure components.
Other examples of these devices are Smart TVs, headphones, self-driving cars, coffee makers, and much more. Just recently, a senior researcher proved that a coffee maker can be hacked. Since it acted as a Wi-Fi access point, which established an unencrypted and unsecured connection to another app (IoT Hardware). But worse, what would happen if a hacker would successfully program your coffee machine to attack the router, or other network-connected devices?
In more perilous incidents, hackers have been able to successfully hack into car systems. With automobiles becoming increasingly technologically advanced, although bringing many advantages, there are a number of vulnerabilities that come with such developments. In 2015, two security researchers hijacked a vehicle over the internet and the results were chilling. The hackers were able to turn the steering wheel, briefly disable the brakes, and shut off the engine. All while the driver had zero control. Thankfully, this was just a test. But imagine malicious actors were behind the attack…the consequences could be fatal (Car Computer Security).
Security Challenges with Internet Connected Devices
The proliferation of connected devices has led to the creation of smart homes, cities, and industries, where various devices communicate with each other to automate tasks, improve efficiency, and enhance convenience. As internet connected devices become more affordable, more people will purchase them. So, if this trend continues, it is predicted that by only the year 2030, each person will own around 15 connected devices!
However, the widespread adoption of connected devices also raises concerns about privacy, security, and data management. As more devices become interconnected, ensuring the security of data and networks becomes increasingly critical to prevent unauthorized access and potential breaches.
With this connected devices growing trend comes more access points for a bad actor (IoT Security). And, with this, brings the need to monitor more devices. However, the more devices to monitor, the increased chances of vulnerabilities going unaccounted for. This is especially dangerous at a time when hardware-based attacks are becoming more common. Existing security software solutions do not provide protection for such an attack. Hence, you are essentially completely vulnerable and will not even know that you are a victim.
The Risks of Connected Devices
Hardware implants have the ability to perform a number of different attacks. Including data theft, malware injection, DDoS, APTs and MiTM, to name a few. All while going completely unnoticed. Hardware implants have been in use since at least 2008. They originally cost around $20,000, but as these attack tools are becoming more common. They are also becoming much cheaper and simpler to use… You can buy the average malicious USB drive, such as the USB Rubber Ducky, for only $50 (Bad USB).
So, as the number of connected devices increases, and the ability to carry out a hardware attack becomes easier, one can only imagine what this means for the future of connected devices. Although technological advancements have been transformative in a hugely positive way, we cannot ignore the many dangers that they bring. It is imperative that one does everything they can to ensure that they, and their organization, are protected to the highest possible degree so that the plethora of perks that come with connected devices can be can fully enjoyed.
Sepio’s Platform
Sepio’s Asset Risk Management platform empowers enterprises to tackle connected devices cyber security with physical layer visibility. By calculating a digital fingerprint of all IT, OT, and IoT assets, Sepio’s solution accurately detects and identifies each device within your infrastructure. Its comprehensive policy enforcement mechanism, combined with Rogue Device Mitigation capabilities, promptly blocks unapproved or rogue hardware, preventing hardware-based attacks. With Sepio’s solution in place, you gain complete control and visibility over all devices operating within your infrastructure, strengthening your IoT security posture.
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