Shawn Mike
The Internet of Things (IoT) has promised a smart future for the generations to come. However, at the same time, several security concerns are being raised with the widespread use of this technology. IoT has increased the frequency at which data breaches take place and is acting as a threat to the future of networking.
It is alarming how we are exposed to so many security threats simply while using our phones or tablets. Our article today discusses ten IoT security challenges that one should expect and look out for in the coming year.
Challenge # 1 – Default Passwords
With so many intelligent gadgets and an even greater number of platforms that users sign in on. People are using default passwords more often. Seldom do they realize that having default passwords can expose them to a multitude of threats. Cybercriminals are looking for loopholes that allow them to hack inside systems. Default passwords are a gateway to criminal activities such as brute-force attacks. Passwords are not just saved inside devices, they are also easier to guess and may not even require brute force actions.
Challenge #2 – Outdated Machinery
Default passwords do cause a lot of security risks. However, other cybersecurity challenges are important to take into consideration as well. The issue is that IoT may enable the software portion of devices to be updated. Unfortunately, the hardware is not always up to the mark. Outdated hardware causes loss of control within devices and exposes them to hackers. Both the hardware and software should be aligned and streamlined to work in alliance with each other. For example, a high power military BDA can be used for outdoor applications and is one of the equipment which needs to be updated according.
Challenge #3 – Data Breaches
One of the biggest cybersecurity concerns are data breaches. Organizations are constantly trying to ensure that data privacy is not compromised. The issue arises because no matter what, the data needs to be transferred from one device to another. This is how communication takes place in general. Organizations can ensure privacy through which data can be stored anonymously. This way the users won’t have their personal information exposed. Moreover, the practice of saving data anonymously must be practiced on all platforms such as the web and various cloud services.
Challenge #4 – Training Staff
IoT is a relatively new technology. It is not surprising that there are very fewer professionals in the field who possess the right skills to manage IoT-based devices. There is an increase in the demand of cyber-security professionals and very few people who can run these devices without running into a potential security error. The year 2020 will see a shortage of trained professionals who can deal with the increasing security concerns related to IoT networks.
Challenge #5 – Issues with Cloud Security
Businesses are constantly moving toward cloud solutions. Along with the ease that cloud solutions provide, they can be a threat to the security of devices. It is predicted that with the increase in the number of devices, cloud-based security threats will only grow in the future. The top four security issues with cloud computing are:
- Lack of back-ups and consequent data loss.
- Negligence on the employee’s part.
- Network vulnerabilities and system failures.
- Shared resources, and systems.
Challenge #6 – Issues with Data Encryption
Data encryption is one of the ways to keep attackers under control. Poor data encryption causes users to be at risk of losing their personal or sensitive information. The issue with devices is that they don’t have enough storage which makes it easier for cybercriminals to gain access to their core and manipulate sensitive information. Data encryption is of no use unless powerful algorithms are protecting the data.
Challenge #7 – Issues with IoT Optimization
IoT is a promising solution to revolutionize our lives. Unfortunately, the security concerns related to this are alarming. There are organizations today that are handling tens of thousands of IoT devices at the same time. The interconnected network of devices produces a massive amount of data. There are data management tools that are required to deal with a large amount of data. Mishandling of these tools can lead to massive data infringement and a threat to users.
Challenge #8 – The Issue of Botnets
Botnets can acquire data, distribute spam messages and gain access to devices without the users finding out. Botnets are known to cause malicious activities and are also known as “Zombie Computers”. They are activated once the computer gets infected and is under a malware attack. Once a system is under this condition it causes a 3rd party to access control of the computer. Botnets are used for a variety of applications. They can be used to send spam messages, spread viruses/spyware and cause data theft.
Challenge #9 – Phishing Attacks
Phishing attacks are a common method of malware distribution, identity theft, stealing passwords and making illegal payments. The act of cryptojacking is also made through phishing attacks. The issue of phishing attacks will most likely be carried forward in the coming year and continue to be a security risk.
Similar is the case with ransomware attacks that play an important role in all cyber-related crimes. There is proper training required for people who are meant to safeguard users from cyber-attacks. The right tools and techniques can help people be safe from these malicious activities.
Challenge #10 – Automation Challenges due to IoT
IoT devices have taken over our lives and as mentioned above have caused the production of massive amounts of data. There is a need to develop tools that will be able to handle all this data. A useful method to manage data is through automation. Using automation tools can cause several security issues and a minor misconfiguration can lead to a deadly outage.
Final Thoughts
The security threats related to IoT should not be underestimated. With stronger technological tools, there is a high probability that attackers will become stronger as well. Therefore, companies should take the necessary security measures to protect their clients.
