Ten use cases in IoT, Embedded Systems & Unmanned Technologies: Threats and Opportunities you should know in 2025

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The rapid integration of the Internet of Things (IoT) and unmanned systems is transforming industries such as healthcare, energy, transportation, and smart cities. This evolution offers unprecedented efficiencies and innovations but also introduces significant cyber security challenges that stakeholders, including venture capital (VC) and private equity (PE) firms, must address.

Understanding IoT and Unmanned Systems Security

• IoT security involves safeguarding internet-connected devices and their networks from cyber threats. These devices range from industrial machinery to smart home gadgets, all of which can be vulnerable if not properly secured.
• Embedded system security focuses on protecting the software within hardware components, ensuring that devices function correctly without external interference. This is crucial for maintaining the integrity of devices that perform specific, often critical, tasks.
• Unmanned systems security pertains to protecting autonomous devices—such as drones, self-driving cars, and robotic systems—from cyber threats that could compromise their operations. As these systems often operate without direct human oversight, ensuring their security is vital to prevent malicious control or data breaches.

Recent Cyber Incidents Highlighting Security Imperatives

The increasing frequency and sophistication of cyberattacks underscore the urgency of robust security measures:

• In 2024, a Mirai botnet comprising over 13,000 compromised IoT devices launched a record 5.6 Tbps Distributed Denial-of-Service (DDoS) attack, highlighting the vulnerabilities inherent in unsecured IoT devices.
• Smiths Group Cyberattack: Smiths Group, a global engineering and technology company, experienced a cyberattack affecting its worldwide systems. The breach led to a 1.7% drop in share prices, emphasizing the financial and operational impacts of such attacks.
• Chinese State-Sponsored Cyber Espionage: Chinese hackers, associated with groups like Volt Typhoon and Salt Typhoon, have advanced from corporate espionage to targeting critical infrastructure, including ports, power grids, and telecom networks. This shift highlights the evolving nature of cyber threats and the need for enhanced security measures.
• A massive IoT data breach exposed 2.7 billion records, compromising sensitive information such as Wi-Fi network names, passwords, IP addresses, and device configurations.
• In the healthcare sector, attacks on medical IoT devices have increased by 123% year over year, targeting devices like pacemakers and insulin pump

10 Compelling Use Cases of IoT, Embedded, and Unmanned Systems in 2025

In 2025, the integration of Internet of Things (IoT), embedded systems, and unmanned systems has transformed various sectors, offering innovative solutions and enhancing operational efficiencies. Here are ten impactful use cases:

1. Smart Healthcare Monitoring: Wearable devices equipped with IoT sensors continuously monitor vital signs, enabling early detection of health anomalies. This proactive approach leads to timely interventions and improved patient outcomes.

2. Autonomous Vehicles: Self-driving cars utilize a network of IoT sensors and embedded systems to navigate roads safely, reduce human error, and optimize traffic flow, contributing to safer and more efficient transportation.

3. Industrial Automation: Manufacturing facilities deploy IoT-connected sensors on production lines to monitor equipment health, predict maintenance needs, and minimize downtime, enhancing productivity and reducing operational costs.

4. Precision Agriculture: Farmers leverage IoT-enabled devices to monitor soil moisture, weather conditions, and crop health, facilitating data-driven decisions that boost yields and promote sustainable farming practices.

5. Smart Grid Management: Energy providers implement IoT sensors to monitor electricity consumption in real-time, optimize grid performance, and swiftly identify and address outages, leading to more reliable energy distribution.

6. Supply Chain Optimization: IoT tracking devices provide real-time visibility of goods in transit, allowing businesses to monitor shipments, reduce losses, and enhance logistics efficiency.

7. Environmental Monitoring: Embedded sensors deployed in various ecosystems collect data on air and water quality, enabling authorities to detect pollution levels and respond promptly to environmental hazards.

8. Smart Home Systems: Home automation solutions utilize IoT devices to control lighting, heating, and security systems remotely, offering convenience, energy savings, and enhanced home security for users.

9. Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) for Delivery: Drones equipped with IoT connectivity facilitate rapid and efficient delivery of goods, especially in remote areas, transforming last-mile delivery logistics.

10. Connected Retail Experiences: Retailers implement IoT solutions to offer personalized shopping experiences, such as targeted promotions and inventory tracking, enhancing customer satisfaction and driving sales.

Mitigation Strategies for Enhanced Security

To safeguard against the evolving landscape of cyber threats, organizations should adopt comprehensive security measures:

1. Regular Firmware and Software Updates: Ensure all devices, especially IoT and embedded systems, receive timely updates to patch known vulnerabilities.
2. Network Segmentation: Isolate IoT and unmanned systems on separate networks to prevent lateral movement of threats within organizational systems.
3. Robust Authentication Mechanisms: Implement strong, unique passwords and multi-factor authentication to restrict unauthorized access to critical systems.
4. Data Encryption: Utilize advanced encryption methods for data storage and transmission to protect against interception and unauthorized access.
5. Continuous Monitoring and Threat Intelligence: Employ advanced intrusion detection systems and stay updated with the latest threat intelligence to identify and respond to potential threats proactively.

Opportunities for Startups, Scale-ups, Founders, VC, and PE Firms

The expanding landscape of IoT and unmanned systems presents substantial opportunities:

• Startups and Scale-ups: Innovators can develop advanced security solutions tailored to protect IoT devices and unmanned systems, addressing the growing demand for cyber security in these domains.
• Founders: Entrepreneurs have the chance to pioneer technologies that enhance the resilience of autonomous systems, contributing to safer integration into critical sectors like healthcare and transportation.
• VC and PE Firms: Investors can capitalize on the burgeoning market by funding companies that specialize in IoT security and unmanned system protections, anticipating significant returns as the industry prioritizes cyber security.

Why collaboration is key

As cyber threats evolve, collaboration and diversity are essential for staying ahead. Communities such as SECURE | CYBER CONNECT Community & Podcast , YorkshireX , DTX 360 , Clarion Events , Cyber News Global , Cyber UK, CyBlack , Women in CyberSecurity (WiCyS) , Women in CyberSecurity (WiCyS) UK & Ireland , Join Momentum , the ISACA Northern England Chapter , Cyber London , and the Yorkshire Cyber Security Cluster offer vital platforms for professionals to share insights and drive innovation. In the context of safeguarding IoT and unmanned systems, these networks play a crucial role in developing robust security strategies, sharing best practices, and fostering collective action to address vulnerabilities. By championing diverse perspectives and prioritising well-being, these communities help teams remain resilient, ensuring that our increasingly connected world is secure and prepared for emerging challenges.

Introducing Toby Wilmington

We are delighted to welcome Toby Wilmington , a highly regarded cyber security specialist with over a decade's experience in developing and managing some of the world’s most advanced defence systems. Having served at BAE Systems , Recorded Future and NATO , Toby now heads Periphery as Founder—a pioneering firm dedicated to embedded security, intrusion detection, and compliance across the rapidly expanding realms of the Internet of Things and unmanned technologies. His deep industry insight and strategic approach have earned him the trust of both governments and enterprises, as he continuously redefines how we secure our interconnected future.

Why This Episode is a Must-Watch & Value You’ll Gain:

Our conversation delves into the mounting cyber threats targeting IoT and autonomous systems, while also examining the significant impact of global tensions on the protection of critical infrastructure. Toby provides practical expertise on mitigating risks in drones, autonomous vehicles and industrial IoT, and shares actionable strategies that businesses can adopt immediately. He also recounts his journey as a founder, discussing the challenges of launching a cyber security startup and the valuable lessons learned from fundraising. This episode is essential listening for cyber security professionals, tech leaders and entrepreneurs who are committed to strengthening their digital ecosystems while embracing innovation and safeguarding the future.

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