Are IoT Devices Vulnerable to Hacks?

Let’s start with the definition. The Internet of Things (IoT) describes devices with sensors, processing ability, software, and technology that connect and exchange data with devices and systems over the internet. It also includes communication networks. Reading that, do you think IoT devices are vulnerable to hacks? Well, one study found that 54% of businesses suffer from attempted cyber attacks targeting IoT devices, a number that keeps growing. Read on to get all the information.

The Complexity of IoT Networks

IoT devices often operate within complex networks – it’s not just a single network, and that’s the beginning of the issues we’ll discuss. The networks they operate on store endless amounts of data about us. It’s literally everywhere online. And do you know how to remove your online data?

This complexity makes it tricky to manage and secure each device individually and means that compromising one device can potentially jeopardize the network security. It’s like a domino effect on your data.

Inherent Security Flaws

The rush to market can mean that security takes a back seat in IoT devices – and there’s definitely a rush to market because the market is so saturated. Everyone wants their spot.

Manufacturers – eager to jump on the bandwagon of the latest tech trend – sometimes neglect to implement stringent security measures. This oversight can leave devices with basic vulnerabilities like weak default passwords or unsecured network services.

And there’s more than just those concerns, most IoT devices can’t also be updated remotely, which means once deployed, that’s how they are. It wouldn’t be so many if they could connect to a remote server for updates.

Regular Software Updates

Unlike smartphones or computers – IoT devices lack regular software updates that fix security vulnerabilities. Even some smartphones and computers do, but IoT devices are even worse.

Manufacturers might not provide ongoing support, especially for older models, leaving them susceptible to newer types of cyber-attacks.

The proprietary nature of many IoT devices means that security researchers or the user community may not know how to develop and apply their fixes.

Consumer Awareness and Device Management

The final complexity comes from the end users themselves. Let’s face it; not all of us are savvy – we literally make ourselves more vulnerable. Many consumers don’t know the security risks associated with IoT devices, and they don’t know how to manage these devices securely. From changing default passwords to disabling unnecessary features and using secure networks, the responsibility often sits with the users to protect themselves.

And the worst thing is, we do nothing about it. For example, some research found that 97% of users agree to terms and conditions without reading them. Within those terms and conditions will be information about how your data will be used, what they can do with it, etc. Once you click agree, you’re permitting them to do what they want.

IoT devices are convenient – we literally couldn’t live without them. But there’s no denying that they come with significant risks. And it isn’t that we have to wait for these risks to become our problem – as you can see, there are steps to take to make your IoT device less vulnerable.