BLOG
2021.02.17
IoT Security
SHARE
We are living in a “smart” age. Virtually everything we own is or can be a smart device, from a smartphone in our pockets toa smart TV on our walls and smart cars on the road. Put simply, smart devices, also known as IoT devices, are connected via networks such as Bluetooth or Wi-Fi and function in conjunction with each other to make life easier for users. At home, this IoT ecosystem enables residents to turn appliances on and off from the comfort of their beds; at work, it makes most operations more efficient and productive.
The problem is that whenever things are connected to a network, the threat of hacking surfaces. Whether it is an unsecured device, a vulnerable network or advanced hacking, smart devices are susceptible to ways of hacking that their non-smart counterparts are not. In this smart age, how do we keep our devices and our data protected? We have compiled a list of tips from both our in-house experts and credible, online sources that work for both domestic and industrial IoT devices.
1. Set strong passwords
The cardinal rule of IoT security is to set strong passwords and frequently change them. Passwords are the locks to the front door of your devices, so they are the most basic line of protection when it comes to keeping devices safe.
2. Update devices regularly
When the front door is locked, hackers will look for other openings—“windows of opportunity”—into the device. Software updates are designed to identify any such loopholes and close them up. As such, it is important that your devices are set to regularly check for updates and to install them in a timely manner.
3. Secure the network
Network connectivity, the very thing that makes an IoT device useful, is what makes it susceptible to hacking. This is why securing the network connection is crucial in protecting IoT security. This step includes turning on encryptions, setting up firewalls and being aware of settings that may allow guests or outsiders to access the network. There are even discussions about segmenting networks, which has been suggested to be more appropriate for IIoT devices.
4. Monitor closely for any irregular events
Monitoring our devices can mean a number of things. For personal devices, this could be regularly running scans for virus or threats. For industrial machines and systems, there are teams dedicated to attempted attacks.
Specific software exist for the purpose of monitoring and protecting industrial machines and systems. At Cervoz, for instance, we have developed an in-house software, the Cervoz FlashMonitor, to go with any of our SSD products so that our customers can detect whenever there are anomalies in data read and accessed.
Specific software exist for the purpose of monitoring and protecting industrial machines and systems. At Cervoz, for instance, we have developed an in-house software, the Cervoz FlashMonitor, to go with any of our SSD products so that our customers can detect whenever there are anomalies in data read and accessed.
5. Maintain cyber literacy
Keep updated on the cybersecurity threats out there. For companies especially, make sure that employees are educated on the different ways that hackers may try to gain access to sensitive company data.
