Internet of Things (IoT) devices are becoming more ubiquitous and diverse, connecting to different platforms and networks. However, this also increases the risks of cyberattacks, data breaches, and privacy violations. How can you ensure IoT devices are secure on multiple platforms? Here are some tips and best practices to follow.
Not all IoT devices are created equal when it comes to security. Some may have weak or default passwords, outdated firmware, or unencrypted data transmission. To avoid these vulnerabilities, you should choose devices that have built-in security features, such as strong authentication, encryption, automatic updates, and remote management. You can also check the manufacturer's reputation, reviews, and security policies before buying or using an IoT device.
In my experience working with Amazon, IoT devices need to have strong encryption capabilities, secure boot and have their firmware updated as soon as possible.
OMG, I retired from all this stuff in 2019. This question was being asked back then. No wonder I could not wait to retire. So tedious and boring. Probably I am just too old!
The network and platform that connect your IoT devices are also critical for their security. You should use a secure network, such as a VPN, firewall, or router, that can protect your devices from unauthorized access and malicious traffic. You should also use a platform, such as a cloud service or an IoT hub, that can provide security features, such as identity management, access control, data protection, and monitoring. You should also avoid using public or unsecured Wi-Fi networks for your IoT devices.
Where possible, they should sit behind firewall and using VPN for management and communication. IoT devices connecting directly to the Internet need special attention.
One of the most common ways that hackers exploit IoT devices is by exploiting known vulnerabilities in their software or firmware. To prevent this, you should update and patch your devices regularly, either manually or automatically. You should also check the manufacturer's website or app for any security alerts or notifications. Updating and patching your devices can fix bugs, improve performance, and enhance security.
Another way to ensure IoT devices are secure on multiple platforms is to monitor and audit their activity. You should keep track of the devices that are connected to your network and platform, and verify their identity and status. You should also monitor the data that they send and receive, and check for any anomalies or suspicious behavior. You can use tools, such as network scanners, log analyzers, or IoT security solutions, to help you with this task.
Where possible, they should sit behind firewall and using VPN for management and communication. Regular penetration testing, monitoring security list from NIST, for example, and monitoring devices via SNMP when possible are very important routine tasks when manging IoT devices.
The principle of least privilege means that you should only grant the minimum level of access and permissions that your IoT devices need to function properly. This can reduce the attack surface and the potential damage that hackers can cause if they compromise your devices. You should also limit the number and type of devices that you connect to your network and platform, and remove or disable any unused or unnecessary devices. You should also review and adjust the settings and preferences of your devices according to your needs and preferences.
Finally, you should educate yourself and others about IoT security and the risks and challenges that it poses. You should learn about the best practices and standards for IoT security, such as the OWASP IoT Top 10 or the NIST IoT Framework. You should also be aware of the current trends and threats in the IoT landscape, and how to respond to them. You should also share your knowledge and experience with other users and stakeholders, and promote a culture of security and privacy for IoT devices.