Major Cybersecurity Challenges in the Age of IoT

To connect billions of devices all around the world, the Internet of Things (IoT) has brought technology to an unprecedented level of interaction with us. IoT Security has integrated itself seamlessly into everything from smart homes, wearables, and automation systems to industrial and healthcare. Nevertheless, the Cybersecurity Challenges increase with their use. 

As vulnerability continues to manifest in IoT ecosystems, cybercriminals have mastered the art of exploiting them. Solutions like those provided by Qualysec Technologies can help address the key cybersecurity challenges in the Age of IoT.

Increased Attack Surface

One of the biggest challenges of IoT devices is that they offer a massive attack surface for exploitation by cyber criminals. Traditional IT systems lack security measures to defend IoT devices that are installed everywhere. As new devices add entry points for a hacker, cyber attacks become an even bigger risk.

Example: If a hacker gains access to a camera in a smart home, they can also potentially unlock doors or retrieve any personal information stored by the smart home security system.

Weak Authentication and Authorisation

Most of the cybersecurity challenges with IoT devices emerge because of the lack of proper authentication and authorisation mechanisms. They are easy targets for brute-force attacks by default or because their passwords are weak. With MFA, unauthorised access can be a significant threat that compromises the sensitive data and functionalities of the device.

Solution

• Implementing MFA for IoT devices.
• Enforcing strong password policies.
• Regularly updating default credentials.

Insufficient Data Encryption

Most of the data exchanged between IoT devices and cloud platforms is often not encrypted, thus making it vulnerable to interception and tampering. MITM attacks are a way for cybercriminals to obtain sensitive information without proper encryption.

Solution

• For data transmission to be encrypted using end to end encryption.
• TLS and SSL deployment along with secure communication protocols.

Lack of Security Updates and Patch Management

Many IoT devices are intended with very limited firmware update capability and thus are susceptible to emerging threats. Devices are usually exposed to exploits because manufacturers are not able to provide timely security patches.

Solution

• Enabling automatic security updates.
• Choosing IoT device vendors that act positively on security and deploying IoT devices with updates and regular updates.

IoT Botnets and DDoS Attacks

Malicious actors often target them to become part of botnets, which can be utilised to execute a Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attack. These attacks inflict significant damage and result in substantial financial losses for networks and servers.

Notable Case

In 2016, The Mirai Botnet Attack infected thousands of IoT devices due to which a large majority of the world experienced internet downtime.

Solution

• Segment network for IoT devices.
• Deploy to use the anomaly detection systems to find unusual traffic patterns.

Privacy Concerns and Data Exploitation

Privacy concerns arise regarding any data collected by IoT devices. Data can be accessed, misused and even sold by anybody who wants to, in violation of such regulations as GDPR and CCPA.

Example

User conversations are also at risk if they are compromised by smart speakers and voice assistants like Alexa and Google Assistant.

Solution

• Enforcing strict data access policies.
• Enabling user-controlled privacy settings.
• Introduction of privacy by design principles in the development of IoT.

Insecure APIs and Third-Party Integrations

The communication between IoT ecosystems with their various platforms relies on Application Programming Interfaces (APIs). Insecure APIs are poor and may lead to unauthorised access, data breaches, etc.

Solution

• The creation of strong API authentication, and encryption mechanisms.
• Regularly testing APIs for vulnerabilities.

Lack of Standardized Security Frameworks

Without universal security standards, it is hard to secure IoT devices regardless of whom the manufacturer is or in which industry you operate. 

Solution

• IoT security should be completely regulated by governments and industry leaders.
• NIST IoT Security Framework should be followed by businesses.

Supply Chain Risks and Backdoors

IoT devices typically have components from many suppliers, and some are likely insecure. Backdoors are introduced into compromised hardware or firmware and attackers get unauthorised control over the devices.

Solution

• Thorough security assessment on IoT supply chains.

• Partnering with trusted vendors that follow the best practices in terms of Cybersecurity in IoT.

AI-Powered Cyber Threats in IoT

As Artificial Intelligence (AI) technologies continue to evolve, cybercriminals are now actively exploiting AI-driven attacks to capitalise on the vulnerabilities of IoT devices. More so, IoT security is a difficult business with malware powered by AI that can adapt and evade traditional security measures.

Solution

• Use AI to deploy Cybersecurity in IoT solutions in force for proactive threat detection.
• Detecting anomalies in IoT networks with the help of behavioural analytics.

How IoT Cybersecurity Specialists Can Help

Top IoT Cybersecurity companies like Qualysec Technologies can address many of the security challenges that arise due to the rampant use of IoT devices today. Penetration testing, vulnerability assessments, and compliance services offered by companies such as Qualysec secure IoT infrastructure.

Conclusion

The Internet of Things offers a multitude of advantages that enhance convenience, efficiency, and connectivity. However, these benefits are accompanied by a set of intricate and multifaceted security challenges that cannot be overlooked. As IoT devices proliferate, they create a vast network of interconnected systems that are susceptible to a wide range of cyber threats. To safeguard businesses and individuals from these evolving threats, it is imperative to stay informed about the latest security vulnerabilities and emerging attack vectors. Additionally, adopting and implementing the best security practices is crucial to fortifying their IoT ecosystem.