Elizabeth Bradshaw is an experienced writer and cybersecurity enthusiast. With a passion for unraveling the complexities of data security, she brings valuable insights and expertise to the readers of Data Watchtower.
The rise of technology has brought about the Internet of Things (IoT), enabling devices to be connected to the internet and interact with other devices and networks. This presents both economic and societal benefits. As the IoT grows, securing its connections and devices becomes a priority to avoid potential cyberattacks.
In this article, we discuss IoT security, its challenges, best practices, and available solutions to protect connected devices and networks from cybersecurity threats. We will also introduce some relevant phrases that relate to IoT security developments.
With the increase of IoT devices and associated systems, the IoT journey has become complex, meaning the security of these devices must also become more intricate. IoT devices are vulnerable to cyberattacks due to their internet connectivity, which exposes them to various types of cybersecurity threats.
The main challenges of IoT security include:
Remote exposure
Lack of industry foresight
Resource constraints
Potential vulnerabilities due to lack of security software on devices
Limited network security to detect IoT devices
Inventory management
Device threats
Data volume and types
Device diversity, ownership, and unification crisis
The more distributed devices are throughout network systems, the more difficult it can be to maintain a high level of protection. Even with coding, backend systems, the cloud, and cloud-based applications, IoT devices are attacked daily by hackers or cybercriminals. A weakness can exist whenever a part of the IoT journey is exposed. Therefore, it is essential to keep securing all areas of the IoT ecosystem to prevent possible IoT insecurities.
In the following sections, we will discuss some best practices for IoT security, IoT security solutions, and relevant guidance and standards.
Best Practices for IoT Security
To protect IoT systems and devices, enterprises can introduce IoT security during the design phase. Implementing Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) and digital certificates, ensuring network security, and focusing on API security are also significant measures that can be taken.
Identifying and assessing vulnerabilities and risks associated with all devices
Automating zero-trust policies
Taking swift action on preventing known threats
Rapidly detecting and responding to unknown threats
Deploying security measures by keeping risks assessments simple
Offering training to help customers for better user education
Tracking user actions by logs of all device authentication on trusted accounts
Encouraging password control and holding regular security risk assessment reviews
Engaging in service providers to add layers of security mechanisms to their cloud connectivity
Zero-trust policies can prevent human or machine error by improving protection within the IoT ecosystem. Automating the process can eliminate most of the security challenges that come when operational teams manage critical IoT infrastructure daily. Security specialists need to follow best practice guidelines and implement measures such as PKI and certificates to encrypt data transfers. In addition, regular security risk assessment reviews improve the chances of identifying network vulnerabilities that could cause data breaches.
IoT Security Solutions
Several IoT security frameworks, legislation, and standards exist to help safeguard IoT and its users. Specialist technology solution providers, such as Fortinet and Thales, deliver support, knowledge, and services to help mitigate risks and secure IoT devices.
Fortinet provides solutions for securing IoT devices and the networks they are connected to. Their product FortiNAC offers the necessary capabilities to meet IoT security requirements, with automated response, control, and visibility integrated into their security fabric approach.
Thales is another top IoT security company providing knowledge, solutions, and services to mitigate risks and secure IoT devices. The company operates on several levels to ensure IoT security:
Compliance with industry standards
Firmware updates
Risk assessment
Bug bounties
Penetration testing
Regular review of lifecycle deployment services
Deployment of security measures post-implementation
As for legislation, GDPR, the NIS Directive, the California IoT Security Law, and the IoT Cybersecurity Improvement Act may apply.
Organizations can also adopt IoT security frameworks like The Open Web Application Security Project (OWASP) IoT and IoTSF’s IoT Security Assurance Framework. The latter is a practical resource for vendors to achieve fit-for-purpose security requirements in their products.
Conclusion
The IoT’s growing deployment brings significant advantages to society. Still, it also expands the attack surface and presents security risks to organizations globally. With the challenges and best practices for IoT security, Enterprises can reduce security risks and instill trust in the ecosystem.
By implementing cybersecurity solutions, guidance, and industry standards, organizations can enhance their data security posture and protect their connected devices and networks. Some best practices include deploying zero-trust policies, implementing PKI, and certificates, ensuring network security, and focusing on API security and identifying risks.
Finally, several IoT security solutions and frameworks exist to bring better protection to IoT devices. To stay protected, businesses must keep their IoT devices updated, track user actions, and work with specialist companies for guidance on security risk assessments and regular security review alerts.
Elizabeth Bradshaw is an experienced writer and cybersecurity enthusiast. With a passion for unraveling the complexities of data security, she brings valuable insights and expertise to the readers of Data Watchtower.
