The Internet of Things (IoT) has revolutionized how businesses operate, from smart thermostats in office buildings to connected printers in corporate environments. However, with the growing adoption of IoT devices, there comes an increased risk of vulnerabilities if these devices aren’t properly secured. While IoT devices offer convenience, they can also be a gateway for cybercriminals to infiltrate networks and cause significant damage.
Unsecured IoT devices can create major security risks, but with the right help and proactive measures to protect your network, you can nip this potential threat in the bud. Here’s what you need to know!
The Threat of Unsecured IoT Devices
IoT devices are designed to provide convenience, but they frequently lack robust security features. Many IoT products, from smart cameras and digital assistants to printers and wearables, come with default passwords, minimal encryption, and little-to-no built-in defenses against hacking attempts. As a result, they can become prime targets for cyberattacks. When these devices are connected to corporate networks or the home networks of team members without proper security measures, they create potential entry points for attackers.
Common unsecured IoT devices can include:
Printers
Printers are one of the most common, yet overlooked, IoT devices in office environments. Many modern printers are connected to networks, allowing employees to print from any device. However, printers with weak or default passwords are vulnerable. Hackers can access the printer's internal storage, potentially stealing sensitive documents that were previously printed or scanned. They can also use a printer to gain access to the wider network, spreading malware or stealing login credentials, and in some cases, attackers can use printers to launch Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attacks or serve as a launching point for other cybercrimes.
Smart Cameras and Surveillance Systems
Smart security cameras and surveillance systems are increasingly common in both residential and business settings. These cameras are designed to be easily monitored remotely via mobile apps or websites. However, when these cameras are not properly secured, they can become a major vulnerability. Hackers can gain access to live video feeds or recorded footage, compromising privacy. In some instances, cybercriminals can also hijack a camera to spy on individuals, or use it as a platform to launch further attacks on the network. Unsecured cameras can be used as entry points for ransomware attacks or to access sensitive internal systems as well.
Protecting Your IoT Devices and Network
While the risks are real, there are several measures you can take to secure your IoT devices and protect your network. Here are a few!
Segment Your Network
One of the most effective ways to minimize the risks of unsecured IoT devices is to segment your network. By placing IoT devices on a separate, isolated network from your core business systems, you can limit the scope of damage in case of an attack.
VLANs (Virtual Local Area Networks) allow you to segment different parts of your network, keeping IoT devices on a dedicated network separate from your critical business infrastructure. This ensures that your IoT devices are out of contact with sensitive systems unless necessary.A firewall can also help to prevent unauthorized access between the networks.
Update Firmware Regularly
Firmware updates are a crucial line of defense when securing your IoT devices. Manufacturers often release updates to fix vulnerabilities and improve the security of their products, making regular updates a security necessity. Where possible, enable automatic updates for your IoT devices. For devices that don’t support automatic updates, set a reminder to check for updates on a regular basis.
Change Default Passwords and Use Strong Authentication
Many IoT devices come with default usernames and passwords that are easy to guess or find online. Changing these credentials to something more secure is one of the easiest ways to protect your devices. Choose complex passwords that include a mix of letters, numbers, and special characters. Whenever possible, it’s also smart to enable multi-factor authentication (MFA) to add an extra layer of security to IoT device logins.
Monitor Your IoT Devices
Regularly monitoring the activity on your IoT network can help you detect unusual behavior early and respond before an attack escalates. There are specialized tools designed to monitor the traffic on your network, looking for signs of unauthorized access or other suspicious activities. You should also periodically review the list of devices connected to your network and remove any that are no longer in use, that have become obsolete, or that you don’t recognize.
Partnering with an IT Service Provider
While securing IoT devices and networks can be complex, working with an experienced IT service provider like Progressive Computer Systems can help simplify the process. We have the knowledge and expertise to assess your network and provide guidance, identifying potential vulnerabilities, and implementing tailored security measures. From firewall configuration to network segmentation, Progressive Computer Systems can provide end-to-end security solutions to safeguard your IoT devices, and if your business is subject to industry regulations (such as HIPAA, GDPR, or PCI DSS), we can help ensure that your IoT security practices align with the necessary compliance requirements.
The rise of IoT devices brings convenience, but it also introduces significant cybersecurity risks if those devices are not properly secured. With the right proactive steps, you can significantly reduce the risk of exploitation, ensuring that your network remains safe and secure! Don't let your IoT devices become a vulnerability; take control of your cybersecurity today and protect your digital infrastructure for the future. Contact Progressive Computer Systems to learn more!
