Internet of Things (IoT) Cyber Security

IoT Devices

Internet of Things (IoT) cyber security is a growing problem and IoT devices can be found in almost every environment. In 2022 the number of connected IoT devices was estimated to rise to 14.4 billion.

We’ve likely encountered them in our day-to-day lives, devices such as assistants, doorbell cameras, robot hoovers, smart devices for home automation like lightbulbs, switches and plugs, smoke alarms and CO2 sensors, homes appliances like fridges, cookers and washing machines, wearables and healthcare devices, toys and security specific devices. The list really does goes on.

These are primarily consumer products, but there are also commercial, industrial and military IoT devices. There are devices used to make whole cities smart.

So we’re aware of the prevalence of these devices and how they can assist us in our daily activities and digital needs. But how mindful are we of the impact that IoT devices have on our cyber security?

What can we do to ensure that the devices plugged into our home or enterprise networks take cyber security seriously? What can we do to ensure the data we entrust them to handle is protected? How many devices are bought for one purpose, and once they fulfill that purpose, are left for months, years without attention?

The primary focus of this article is to raise cyber security awareness and discuss the security impact these devices can have on our networks and infrastructure if left unattended. We’re going to discuss some steps we can take to make sure that these IoT devices that we use so regularly are setup securely, stay secured and protect our data to the best of their ability.

IoT Cyber Security

As we’ve discussed, there are a wealth of IoT devices available to us and due to the nature of them being actively connected to our networks and the internet, they may pose a significant risk to the security posture of the networks they are connected to. Whilst aimed at enterprise installations, the majority of these points will also apply to devices connected in home environments.

The following points are to be considered when using IoT devices and what we can do to help them, and us, and be as secure as possible. Now this won’t apply to…