How To Secure IoT Devices To Minimize Cybersecurity Risks?
The use of IoT devices in the business setup is increasing with each passing day. The benefits of using IoT include increasing productivity, optimizing resources, and automating tasks. However, IoT devices come with a set of cons. It is especially true for its security aspect. Mostly because of the concept that IoT networks are technology-based, it is assumed by default that it comes with tight security. It is not always the case. Therefore, it becomes imperative to go beyond manufacturers’ default security and implement rigid cybersecurity.
The Risks Of IoT Security
Different IoT devices are designed for different purposes. Many times, a single IoT device can only accomplish one simple task, and it is only the network of IoT devices that creates a sophisticated setup. As a result of the simple tasks it needs to perform, the computational power is often limited. Therefore, the makers do not consider cybersecurity risks associated with it. Irrespective of whether a cybersecurity risk is connected to an IP address or Wi-Fi-related, proper precautions are required in each step. What Is My IP is an excellent platform to check the IP address for further strengthening its security.
Also, most IoT devices carry the same function throughout their lifetime. Therefore, most manufacturers do not release any updates in regard to the operating system or software. Therefore, a patch gap remains in the IoT devices, which gives birth to cybersecurity loopholes.
Additionally, when transferring data between different devices, IoT devices do not use very secure communication platforms. It makes the devices prone to MITM attacks. All these risks associated with IoT devices raise the question of how one can secure IoT devices. Let us now see how IoT devices can be secured.
On top of that, they have poor physical security too. IoT devices are not as heavily guarded as other devices like laptops. It makes it prone to tampering.
Strong Password
Firstly, it is of utmost importance to replace the default password with a new password. Just like we create new passwords for all our accounts, the same should be done for the IoT devices. Also, this password should be changed at least every 90 days. When creating a password, mix symbols numbers and upper and lower case. Additionally, if the IoT devices share multi-factor authentication, enable that.
Do not share the passwords with everyone; keep the password limited to your trusted people. When sharing passwords with someone, ensure that you use a secure communication channel.
Do Not Use Open Internet
IoT requires a larger network to work properly, and therefore, many businesses connect the IoT devices with the open network. It is not recommended because open networks pose a high risk of cybersecurity attacks. Connect the IoT devices with the company’s internal network instead of an open network.
Reports indicate that just after five minutes of a connection of the IoT devices with an open network, it gets attacked. The only way to avoid this is to ensure that you only connect the IoT devices with the company’s internal network.
Disable Auto-Connecting
Most of IoT devices, along with smart devices, have their auto-connect option enabled. Enabling the auto-connect option is even risky for an average person. It, therefore, goes without saying that it is even riskier for businesses. Therefore, the companies should ensure that no unauthorized devices can connect to the company’s internal network. For doing this, it is essential to monitor the system constantly.
Disable The Unused Features
IoT devices come with plenty of features. However, not all the features are required. Additionally, these features, because of their default settings, are turned on to increase the assumed productivity of the people. We recommend you shut down the features of the IoT devices you will not use. It is because the more the number of features enabled, the more the exposure to security vulnerability.
Even though software updates of IoT are very common, ensure that whenever a software update is available, you go for it. Updating the software update is essential to secure the IoT devices. In fact, the fact holds true for all devices. If your business budget allows, you can also consider the cybersecurity of IoT devices with a security-oriented company to support a rigid cybersecurity structure in the business.