Embedded systems are devices that have a specific function and are controlled by software, such as smart thermostats, medical implants, or industrial controllers. They are often connected to networks or the internet, which exposes them to various security risks. In this article, you will learn about some of the common threats and challenges that embedded systems face, and how to mitigate them.
One of the security risks of embedded systems is that they may have hardware vulnerabilities that can be exploited by attackers. For example, some devices may have physical ports or interfaces that allow access to the memory, firmware, or configuration settings. An attacker may use these ports to inject malicious code, steal sensitive data, or alter the device's behavior. To prevent this, you should design your hardware with security in mind, such as using encryption, authentication, and tamper-proof mechanisms.
What's unique about an embedded system is that you may not be able to simply remove a vulnerable component. If it turns out my graphics card has a vulnerability, I can just remove it and still use the computer. If the Bluetooth in your car has an exploit, you may not even be able to turn it off. You usually have to replace the entire thing.
Another security risk of embedded systems is that they may have software flaws that can lead to errors, crashes, or breaches. For example, some devices may run outdated or unpatched software that has known vulnerabilities or bugs. An attacker may use these flaws to compromise the device's functionality, performance, or data. To avoid this, you should follow best practices for software development, such as using secure coding standards, testing and debugging tools, and regular updates.
This isn't unique to an embedded system, but embedded systems can be uniquely difficult to update. Some may not even allow updates, in which case a software vulnerability is essentially a hardware vulnerability, and may require you to replace the entire system rather than just the vulnerable component. Another issue is that people may not even know that the embedded system *has* software. I can't tell you how many times I've gotten in touch with a company about a Linux vulnerability and been told they "don't use Linux" on their devices that are built with Linux.
A third security risk of embedded systems is that they may be exposed to network attacks that can disrupt or hijack their communication. For example, some devices may use wireless protocols or cloud services that are not secure or reliable. An attacker may use these networks to intercept, modify, or block the device's messages, or to launch denial-of-service attacks. To protect this, you should use secure network protocols, such as SSL/TLS, VPN, or encryption, and monitor and manage your network traffic.
This is basically true, but again this doesn't get into the unique problems with embedded systems. For example, if your heart monitor only communicates with Bluetooth, you can hardly use a more secure protocol, or replace the network component.
A fourth security risk of embedded systems is that they may store or transmit sensitive data that can be stolen or leaked by attackers. For example, some devices may collect personal, financial, or health information from users or customers, or control critical infrastructure or systems. An attacker may use this data to harm the users, customers, or systems, or to gain access to other devices or networks. To prevent this, you should use data protection techniques, such as encryption, hashing, or anonymization, and comply with data privacy regulations.
A fifth security risk of embedded systems is that they may be infected by malware that can damage or control them. For example, some devices may download or run software from untrusted sources or third parties, or be exposed to malicious web pages or emails. An attacker may use this malware to spy on, manipulate, or destroy the device's data or functionality, or to spread to other devices or networks. To avoid this, you should use antivirus and firewall software, and verify the source and integrity of your software.
A sixth security risk of embedded systems is that they may be affected by human errors that can compromise their security. For example, some devices may have weak or default passwords, or be configured or operated incorrectly by users or administrators. An attacker may use these errors to gain unauthorized access or privileges to the device, or to exploit its vulnerabilities or features. To reduce this, you should educate and train your users and administrators, and enforce security policies and procedures.
This isn't really an article about embedded systems, it's about general security issues and has the word "embedded" inserted a few times.