Cyber Security Threats in the Age of IoT

In simple terms, the Internet of Things, or just IoT is a concept that connects any device such as cell phones, washing machines, headphones, coffee makers, and basically anything to the Internet and also to each other.

In other words, any device that has an on and off switch qualifies to be part of the IoT. It’s estimated that by 2020 over 26 billion devices will be able to connect easily over the internet. Some researchers even estimate this number to reach over 100 billion connections. The massive interconnection of devices and people has brought a big revolution in the world web and has simplified most of the tasks done online.

However, despite all the merits that come with this improved technology, there is a flip side to it where there is an increase in the rate of cybersecurity threats. Let’s dive into this area and unearth more about the cyber threats facing these systems and their causes.

It all Starts With the Manufacturing Companies

As was mentioned earlier, the IoT revolution has made it possible for devices to interact with each other at ease. It’s important to note that the smarter these appliances are the more protection and security they require. It’s sad to note that most companies do not consider safe devices a priority because they reason that to be an extra expense that would make them increase the price of the gadget. In simple terms, the main reason why many devices are poorly secured is that companies want to sell the product at a reduced price at the expense of its security and privacy.

It’s easy not to get the logic behind securing a basic kitchen appliance such as a smart refrigerator but the truth is hackers are smart and may use such a harmless device to get access to more sensitive gadgets in your possession. As such it’s important to be extra careful with every smart device to avoid hacking.

The Complexity of the System Increases the Threats Rate

The interconnection of billions of smart devices comes with its share of risks. It’s vital for individuals and organizations to be protected against these ever-increasing threats and ensure that private devices are safe from hackers. The whole procedure is not easy but it can be done. A threat at a particular point in the system can compromise the security of the entire network.

Hackers are always on the lookout for vulnerable points in the network where they can gain access to more sensitive information which could ruin a business or an individual. For such reasons, organizations should put into place control measures, such as privileged password management, that inhibit unauthorized connections to foreign devices. In addition, interconnected devices should adhere to the set security procedures to ensure comprehensive protection in the entire system.

The Volume of the Data Collected Poses a Major Threat to Cybersecurity

With the innovation and development of IoT, it’s now possible to collect huge volumes of data for businesses and other learning purposes. This immense volume of data have put the system at risk as it provides significant entry points for hackers.

With the cybersecurity risks in the IoT industry rising significantly, companies are advised to hire professionals to protect their devices and systems against any unauthorized intrusion. Cybersecurity professionals should be proactive and devise new innovative ways to counteract the hackers.

Lack of Well-established Security Standards

Security in the Internet of Things extends beyond protecting devices. This multifaceted system has different vulnerable points which hackers can use to gain access to private networks. While the IoT developing at a very rapid rate, there is still a lack of established standards for the protection of smart devices. This issue has been a crippling factor to manufacturers and has kept them from developing radical protection solutions since they are not sure if these solutions will meet future standards. Lack of proper guidelines is a thorny issue and major stakeholders in the industry are putting it into consideration.

Bottom Line

The topic of cybersecurity threats in the age of IoT is pertinent and should be handled with a lot of considerations. The sheer number of interconnected devices in this system provides numerous points through which hackers can use and disrupt the whole structure. It’s important to ensure that all nodes are secure as one weak point could be an entry point for rogues who are up to no good.