Combating common IoT security issues with the ultimate solution

Cybersecurity experts are constantly working to improve security systems as hackers continue to find new ways to infiltrate networks. While it is impossible to completely eliminate IoT security issues, implementing a robust process can help to mitigate and prevent many potential issues. Hackers often take advantage of open ports, known vulnerabilities, poorly configured systems, and human errors to gain access to a network. These vulnerabilities can also arise from third-party devices, weak passwords, and other sources. One of the most common causes of IoT security issues in an enterprise is weak passwords. Many consumers do not change the default username and passwords that are shipped with devices, making them vulnerable to hacking. To address this issue, enterprises should ensure that the credentials of all IoT devices are changed before they are connected to the network. Measures such as using unique, alpha-numeric password combinations and enabling two-factor authentication can significantly improve the security of a network. Another common issue is insecure user interfaces, which are often ignored by developers but can be a point of entry for hackers. To secure these interfaces, encryption and multi-factor authentication should be implemented, and user verification should be mandatory. A lack of visibility of devices on a network is another problem that can make it difficult to detect and prevent hacking. To address this, a system that provides visibility and security posture of every device should be in place. Additionally, using removable media, such as USB drives, can also make a network vulnerable to hacking. To prevent this, removable media usage can be banned or kept to a minimum and all devices should be constantly scanned for malware and viruses. And lastly, third-party devices also poses a great risk to the network and one should be very careful when allowing them to connect.

Most cyber-attacks are thought to enter through user interfaces. Developers frequently disregard the danger that users introduce while adding information into the system/servers. Mobile, cloud, API, online, network router, and other interfaces with little to no encryption can allow hackers to join the network.

Before making any modifications to the current network, the cybersecurity team should examine its security posture. To begin the process of safeguarding a network, strong encryption and MFA are essential. Authentication and user verification should be made required before joining the network at all times.

Devices are not visible.

Hundreds of thousands of IoT devices are linked on the same network at any given moment in large retail areas, business enterprises, and industrial environments. Most of the time, we won’t discover any precise records of the devices connected to the network, joining and quitting the network, or the network’s security posture. If a hacker gains access to a network via an insecure CCTV or HVAC system, it will be too late to detect the intrusion and take proper action.

To avoid this, a solid system that provides visibility and security posture of every device should be in place. Sectrio’s complete cybersecurity solution includes an interactive dashboard that allows you to manage every device on your network with the press of a button.

Making use of removable media

Not every apple is red. Employees are no exception. Using portable media, a rogue employee or someone following the instructions of a hacker organisation might introduce malware into the network. A similar event was scheduled to occur at a Tesla production facility. The use of removable media to patch computers and transfer data exposes the entire network to risk.

Businesses might fully prohibit the use of detachable media devices. If it is necessary, a continuous anti-malware and anti-virus scan should be conducted around the clock on all devices. The auto-run feature on removable media should be deactivated, and data should be secured.

Devices made by other parties

Aside from their typical workhorses, large office spaces need a plethora of amenities. It doesn’t matter if it’s elevators, lifts, HVAC systems, or lights. The vast majority of suppliers providing these services have no idea how hackers might exploit these devices to get access to local networks. Whether due to a lack of understanding or other restrictions, the majority of systems deployed by third-party suppliers have no security.

The only method to keep a hacker from exploiting a poorly protected third-party device or system is to restrict remote access to such suppliers. A remote access key should only be created for a limited time and must be renewed when it expires. The company should need 2FA for suppliers to log onto the network. Keeping the corporate network separate from the IoT device network is an important step in securing an enterprise’s critical assets.

Skills Gap in IoT

While the Internet of Things revolution is still in its early stages, IoT assaults have already snuck through the cracks. Other than individuals engaged in cybersecurity, there is a significant skill gap. The majority of malware is delivered into company systems via malicious links disguised as tempting emails. When the email is opened, the malware file downloads and performs its operations in the background.

It becomes simpler to avoid cyber-attacks if the skill gap among employees can be addressed. An firm may educate its personnel by routinely arranging cybersecurity lectures and sending out IoT Security recommended practises. This can significantly reduce the likelihood of employees clicking on dangerous email links and inserting removable media devices. Programs for ‘Cybersecurity Awareness and Training’ should be implemented. Enterprise CEOs should view this as an investment in securing their digital assets, not a cost.