Internet of Things (IoT) security is a critical aspect of the rapidly expanding network of interconnected devices. IoT Security assumes greater significance, to ensure these devices do not introduce threats into a network.
Technology is transforming manual tasks into seamless, time-saving processes, the Internet of Things (IoT) stands at the forefront, revolutionizing how we interact with the world around us. With greater efficiency, it is no surprise that, in the average enterprise, more than 30% of all network-connected endpoints are IoT devices (2020 Unit 42 IoT Threat Report – Palo Alto Networks). With this figure predicted to grow.
As IoT devices become an integral part of our daily lives, cybercriminals are also capitalizing on their potential. In the first half of 2021 alone, IoT attacks surged by 100%, highlighting the urgent need for robust IoT security measures (IoT Attacks Skyrocket, Doubling in 6 Months – Threatpost). But why are these devices such lucrative targets?
Exploiting IoTs Security in Cyber Warfare
IoT security is of utmost importance due to the extensive data collection facilitated by IoT devices. These devices accumulate a wide range of data, encompassing corporate, personal, and financial information. This wealth of data makes them a prime target for malicious actors driven by financial motives. To cybercriminals, IoT devices are like slot machines (atm jackpotting attack), offering access to valuable information or acting as gateways to even more lucrative data. The allure of financial gain makes IoT devices an appealing and profitable target for cybercriminals.
The significance of IoT security becomes evident in the context of malicious entities involved in cyber warfare. Whether state-sponsored adversaries or terrorists, these bad actors leverage IoTs to inflict significant damage. The ease of launching botnet attacks (ec-council) through IoT devices can have disastrous consequences. Ransomware attacks and distributed denial of service (DDoS) attacks disrupt operations, with critical infrastructure being particularly vulnerable. As more sectors adopt IoT devices, hostile actors recognize the immense value of exploiting these smart devices.
Why is IoT Security Important?
The adoption of IoT devices expands enterprises’ attack surfaces, making them more accessible to malicious actors. With over 10 billion IoT devices in use today, each device represents a potential entry point into the network. Furthermore, as IoT devices become integrated into various daily activities, the attack surface becomes more dispersed. Heightening the vulnerability to hardware based attacks. For example, a smart coffee machine in an enterprise lobby might seem harmless but can provide a hardware attack with network access for further malicious activities.
The threat landscape extends beyond traditional working environments. The global shift to remote work has introduced new vulnerabilities as cybercriminals target the connectedness of smart home devices. The average home now hosts around 25 connected devices. Ranging from smart TVs (hacking a smart TV) and refrigerators to cameras and security systems (2022 Connectivity and mobile trends – Deloitte). Consequently, the abrupt transition to remote work amplified the IoT security, catching many organizations off guard.
IoT Security Issues and Challenges
COVID did not mark the beginning of IoT security vulnerabilities or concerns. IoT devices tend to be inadequately secured and often lack basic protection, such as strong password configuration. A research about IoT Threats (2020 Unit 42 IoT Threat Report – Palo Alto Networks) shows that more than 80% of internet of medical things (IoT Healthcare) devices run on operating systems that are no longer supported. The absence of sufficient security is often down to the harmless appearance of IoTs. I mean, who would think a coffee machine could cause a security breach? Naturally, these unsuspecting devices lack the necessary security features, yet this leaves a gap that malicious actors exploit.
However, IoTs still pose a risk even when they are afforded protection due to underlying visibility issues. Traditional endpoint and network protection software does not work with IoT. These tools cannot accurately identify, monitor or secure smart devices. And while IoT security solutions are available, they still do not solve all the visibility challenges. Moreover, existing security solutions, be it NAC (Moving Beyond NACs), EPS, IDS, or IoT Network Security, lack physical layer visibility. This blind spot allows rogue devices to operate covertly and exploit IoT Hardware.
Urgent Solutions for Addressing IoT Vulnerabilities
IoT security vulnerabilities are not new, but they demand immediate attention. Many IoT devices lack adequate security measures and are often unprotected due to their innocuous appearance. Traditional endpoint and network protection software are ineffective against IoT threats, unable to accurately identify, monitor, or secure these smart devices. While some IoT security solutions exist, they often fail to address all visibility challenges, leaving blind spots that malicious actors exploit.
Sepio’s Asset Risk Management Platform
Sepio’s Asset Risk Management platform empowers enterprises to tackle IoT security challenges head-on, starting 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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