Understanding Security Aspects of IoT Devices

Introduction

Securing IoT devices is critical as these systems become increasingly interconnected. Key security aspects include data encryption, authentication, and network protection. This article explores various types of IoT security measures and highlights challenges and best practices for safeguarding devices against cyber threats. The IoT market is booming, and the use of IoT devices has become a necessity in everyday life.

As we know, IoT stands for the Internet of Things. This means that to utilize the services of an IoT network, each device needs to be IP compliant; that is, all devices should have IP addresses in order to connect with the internet backbone to co-exist in the IoT system. IoT devices are emerging rapidly for various applications, and people have started using them without considering the security aspects.

This has led to serious security threats as there are many loopholes that are vulnerable to possible cyber attacks by hackers in the IoT system.

Figure-1 depicts a typical IoT topology. As shown, the IoT system is divided into data storage or acquisition, data analysis, gateway, wired or wireless network, and IoT devices (e.g., sensors, hubs, and user end devices). Public and private cloud storage locations are used by IoT users.

Important IoT Security Aspects

As most systems use existing wireless networks such as Wi-Fi, Zigbee, Z-Wave, GSM, etc., IoT systems can be hacked using wireless devices.

In order to have safe and secure use of IoT devices and IoT networks, the following precautions are advisable. These are very useful IoT security aspects for both the user and the IoT network service provider.

• Do not store any critical business or personal data in the internet cloud.
• Do not store any password in your IoT device or anywhere in the internet cloud.
• Do not install any malware without verifying its authenticity.
• Always install third-party software from authentic and genuine websites.
• Do not rush to start using the IoT device; first, secure your newly purchased IoT device with anti-malware and anti-virus software.
• If possible, regularly change the password of the IoT device to improve security.
• Do not bring any sensitive business material for rework at home if the home network is less secure compared to the office network. Do not store such material in easily hackable storage devices or public storage locations. Moreover, avoid using Wi-Fi networks for such work.
• Switch off unused IoT devices as they are vulnerable to potential attacks by hackers in a home network. For example, switch off IoT-compliant thermostats when not needed.
• Switch off Wi-Fi on your smartphone when you do not require internet access. This is because smartphone-based fitness applications have been found to easily leak passwords as well as location information over public Wi-Fi networks.
• Business, finance, and banking related companies should store data and retain it until needed. Once no longer required, it should be deleted to minimize possible hacking.
• Homeowners should be cautious enough to ensure that no unclaimed IoT device gets installed or placed in their premises without their notice, as later these devices can be utilized by hackers for their bad intentions.
• IoT Service providers should provide regular software patches for smartwatches, IoT sensors, IoT gadgets, healthcare applications used in smartphones, etc. This helps IoT devices to be more secure. These patches should be robust enough to take care of modern and latest malware and viruses.
• Individual wireless networks based on various technologies are already secured, which also helps avoid possible security threats.

Conclusion

Robust security measures are vital for protecting IoT devices and systems from vulnerabilities. By implementing best practices and understanding security types, businesses can ensure reliable and secure IoT operations. Proactive security management is essential for the successful adoption of IoT technology.