Protecting Your IoT Ecosystem from Cyber Threats

All internet-connected devices are at risk of unauthorized access and misuse. In the era of the Internet of Things (IoT), malicious actors could potentially access private information, spread malware, or cause physical harm across billions of connected devices.??

As government agencies, businesses, and consumers increasingly rely on a growing number of IoT applications, IoT network security will continue to be a critical consideration for manufacturers and end users alike. While end users bear some responsibility for security, manufacturers must also implement safeguards. A shared responsibility approach is needed.

Understanding the Internet of Things

The IoT refers to the system of interconnected devices that exchange data across networks. These devices offer convenience to everyday users and enable efficiency optimization in commercial and industrial applications. As a result, many individuals and organizations seek the functionality provided by IoT technology.?

IoT technology includes both consumer-oriented devices and applications as well as industrial IoT tools. Examples of IoT devices include smart home appliances, virtual assistants, smart thermostats, lighting systems, speaker systems, and Wi-Fi-enabled smart locks for consumers, and IoT sensors, smart meters, and connected grids requiring industrial control settings for industrial use. IoT also includes healthcare devices in the Internet of Medical Things such as glucose sensors, infusion pumps, and other wireless clinical wearables.

IoT Security Challenges

Internet-connected devices present several security issues. However, while the IoT has brought connectivity to new devices, the underlying cybersecurity problems are not entirely new. We have grappled with hackers as long as we have enjoyed the benefits of the Internet.

1. Weak authentication

Passwords are one of the initial lines of defense against hacking attempts. However, default passwords are often relatively weak since they are meant to be changed, and in some cases may be publicly accessible or stored in source code, which is extremely risky. End users may also set passwords that are easy to remember but easy to penetrate.?

2. Low processing power

Most IoT applications use very little data, reducing costs and extending battery life but making devices difficult to update wirelessly and preventing the use of security features like firewalls, antivirus software, and end-to-end encryption, ultimately leaving them more vulnerable to hacking. Network-level security is therefore critical.

3. Lack of encryption

Since many IoT devices do not encrypt data by default, any transmitted information remains susceptible to interception. For IoT networks transmitting sensitive data in industrial, critical infrastructure, and healthcare settings, data exposure could be catastrophic.

4. Insecure Ecosystems?

If the interface is insecure and the organization has not deployed physical hardening to limit access, then devices remain subject to malware and other cyberattacks. Implementing both physical and digital security controls is paramount with IoT devices. Controls include device management and data protection.

5. Shared Network Access

Allowing IoT devices to utilize the same network as end users' other devices, such as the WiFi or LAN, also increases the vulnerability of the entire network. A bad actor could hack an IoT device to gain initial access and obtain sensitive data stored on the network or connected devices. Similarly, another compromised device on the network could be leveraged to attack the IoT device. In either scenario, customers and manufacturers may dispute responsibility.?

6. Device Theft

Whether obtaining physical possession of a device or spoofing its identity, attackers can leverage stolen or spoofed devices to gain access or persistence on a system. Device theft can also enable data exfiltration and data breaches.

7. Firmware Exploits and Software Vulnerabilities??

Attackers target known vulnerabilities to disrupt service or gain access to systems. Network segmentation of IoT devices can prevent bad actors from infiltrating more critical systems. Installing software updates promptly prevents attacks exploiting identified security issues.

8. Inconsistent Security Standards

Within the IoT field, security standards development has been fragmented. The lack of universal, cross-industry standards complicates securing IoT devices and enabling machine-to-machine communication without increased risk.

9. Missing Firmware Updates?

One of the largest IoT security risks is if devices enter use containing bugs enabling vulnerabilities, whether from in-house code or third parties. Manufacturers need the ability to issue remote firmware updates eliminating such risks. If networks cannot support adequate data transfer or messaging, physical device access may be needed for updates.

10. Gaps between Mobile Networks and the Cloud

Many IoT devices regularly interact with cloud applications, but transmissions between cellular networks and the cloud typically traverse the public internet, vulnerable to interception or malware, despite networks and applications individually being secure. Manufacturers and customers can address this by closing the gaps with cloud connectivity solutions.

IoT Security Solutions

Security is imperative for IoT businesses and vendors. The introduction of new technology and increased global deployments present myriad new security issues that must be considered when deploying M2M devices.?

1. Physical Security

Since IoT applications are often remote, physical security is crucial to prevent unauthorized access to devices. Resilient components and specialized hardware that make data more difficult to access are valuable.?

For example, in cellular IoT devices, critical information is stored on the SIM card. Most SIM form factors are removable, making this data more vulnerable. An embedded SIM (eSIM) is soldered directly onto the circuit board, making it harder to physically access and more resistant to changes in temperature or shock damage sometimes used in sabotage or hacking attempts.

2. Assess IoT Risks??

New hardware and software entering a network require awareness of potential risks introduced. Procurement personnel can partner with security teams to ensure thorough risk assessments of new devices and software entering the supply chain, following best practices in Third-Party Risk Management policies.?

3. Map Your IoT Network

Maintaining a network map of IoT-connected devices, particularly those sharing predictive maintenance data, ensures no devices are unmonitored or untracked, aiding awareness over the entire attack surface. Device visibility and management systems provide this. Knowing each device and how they communicate allows for tracking atypical packets or energy/data consumption, and immediately evaluating abnormalities in industrial IoT ecosystems.

4. IMEI Lock?

An International Mobile Station Equipment Identity (IMEI) uniquely identifies most mobile devices. IMEI locking enables configuring a SIM's functionality to a specific IMEI in real time, preventing SIM removal and use in other devices.

5. Encrypted Data Transfer

Securely transporting data to/from devices requires encrypting network transfers. Developers can use protocols like Transport Layer Security (TLS) to secure communications. While applications and networks may be secure, interceptable gaps exist between them. Using an X.509 certificate and/or single VPN/IPSec connection between the mobile network and application server closes this security gap.

6. Set Up Alerts for Your IoT Network

Real-time alerting across networks maintains awareness of unexpected behavior. Separating the IoT network also allows setting specific alert triggers. Automation tools notify the organization through various integration options, ensuring information directly reaches communication channels. Continuous monitoring security solutions track behavior and issues so notification systems can triage alerts.

Conclusion

Combining technology and best practices secures IoT devices. Connectivity solution holes leave devices, data, and customers vulnerable to cyber attacks. While enterprises secure data transportation, manufacturers secure devices at the production level.

At Symposia, we specialize in empowering your company with our unparalleled expertise in cybersecurity talent that will navigate the intricate landscape of Vendor, Client, and Payor Risk Assessments. We can help you with comprehensive risk assessment, tailored cybersecurity solutions, and expert staffing to enhance your operational security and efficiency.