Electronic device manufacturers have made the Internet of Things (IoT) devices easy to install and use. A lot of these devices are designed to be plug-and-play, fully compatible with other devices. Also, they are easy to manage from common applications. However, even if they have many benefits, the IoT is continuously being integrated into enterprise and home specs, expanding the threat landscape. Read on to know the threats and vulnerabilities in IoT devices:
Edge Devices
These days, interacting with IoT edge devices is unavoidable. Apart from smartphones and laptops, organizations equip their offices with devices that promote efficiency and safety, from security cameras to smart light and connected printers. A lot of these devices are making their way into living spaces through connect fridges and smart thermostats. Because of the possibility of hacked cameras, these devices must be secured by being aware of the threats and vulnerabilities.
Business Environments
Businesses already know about cybersecurity threats that may impact laptops, smartphones, or tablets that employees use. Often, security teams are in place to protect company endpoints that connect to the business network and the network itself. But, employees may also bring their own IoT device that they connected to business networks and use it while at work. Also, businesses should contend with risks and threats that arise from the increasing prevalence of miscellaneous consumer-grade IoT devices within the business premises.
Networks
Malicious actors work to compromise enterprise systems, steal information, disrupt operations, and access sensitive data. They are focused on targeting IoT devices connected to public networks. Because of the possible consequences of a successful or a compromised attack, it’s important to protect commonly-used features and typical devices businesses and homes use. These include the following:
- Network-attached storage (NAS) devices. Exploiting some vulnerabilities can let attackers bypass authentication, execute code on the device, and download or manipulate user data. Also, these devices can bring ransomware and other malware to carry out a DDoS attack.
- Internet protocol devices. Businesses are embracing IP devices because they are easy to install and scalable. However, these devices are prone to vulnerabilities. Often, they come with default settings and credentials that users fail to change and this behavior can be easily exploited by hackers.
- Universal plug-and-play devices. A lot of IoT devices such as cameras, routers, and gaming consoles are equipped with a Universal Plug-and-Play feature that allows networked devices to communicate, coordinate functions, and share data. If hackers can exploit this feature, they can compromise or even take control of the machines.
