5 Critical Steps for Effective IoT Security
IoT technology is transforming businesses and life as we know it, with global IoT revenue projected to be $1.6 trillion by 2025. Connected devices make life convenient in many ways, including industrial control systems, entertainment, medical devices, and much more. This explosive growth provides a powerful motive for criminals to target smart devices, homes, and businesses alike, making effective IoT security essential.
Effective IoT Security Tips
1. Know what's connected with complete asset inventory.
It is not easy to keep track of all your connected devices and systems. This is especially true for businesses, hospitals, and organizations with multiple departments and locations. You cannot secure what you do not know. The first step is taking inventory of all connected devices. Once you compile a comprehensive list, you can take steps to keep everything secure.
2. Use strong encryption.
Make sure your Wi-Fi network is protected by strong and up-to-date encryption. Do not use WEP or WPA encryption, as these protocols are easy to break. WPA2 and WPA3 are the recommended protocols. They are not perfect, but they reduce your risk from many common security threats.
When a device connects through the wired network, or even if it is on a secure Wi-Fi network, there are still encryption-based issues with the vast majority of IoT devices. Many devices have administrative portals accessible through a web browser. Many use no encryption by default, and those that do use SSL/TLS frequently use known flawed algorithms. For effective IoT security, it is important to ensure any web server hosted on the devices is secure or disabled.
3. Secure your phones, tablets, and computers.
Phones, tablets, and laptop computers offer anytime, anywhere access to just about anything from across the web. These portable devices are a lifeline, making effective IoT security absolutely critical.
- Never leave devices unattended.
- Avoid public Wi-Fi, especially when logging into sensitive accounts.
- Be careful about what you click or download, including files, links, and apps.
- Keep your operating system and virus protection software updated.
- Use tracking tools like Find My Phone or Find My Device.
4. Use secure passwords.
Strong and random passwords are one of your first lines of defense for effective IoT security.
- Change default passwords immediately.
- Use a mix of upper and lower-case letters, numbers, and characters.
- Never use words or numbers associated with your name, birthdate, or family.
- Make each password unique.
- Educate employees on password security.
- Always change passwords when employees leave or someone has temporary access.
5. Use multifactor authentication.
Two-factor or multifactor authentication adds an important layer of protection. Most sites and applications provide this option, typically by phone, SMS, or a separate authentication app.
Use Effective IoT Security to Protect Your Devices
IoT is part of a major shift in how we use technology, and it is just the beginning. By taking inventory of all your devices and taking sensible precautions, you can minimize the risks while enjoying the rewards.
With IoT Secure, you can protect your IoT assets automatically. They run on any network port, with no network TAPs, no SPAN ports, no software agents to install, and no tuning required.