The Internet of Things (IoT) is the interconnection of computing devices embedded in everyday objects, enabling them to send and receive data, including industrial sensors, smart manufacturing equipment, and devices like home thermostats or security cameras. Given the rapid adoption of IoT within both business and consumer environments, it is becoming ever more important that organizations secure these devices as they increasingly have access to sensitive information and influence mission-critical systems.
The security of IoT is specifically focused on the connected devices and networks, protecting them from unauthorized access and cyber threats. The collection of devices, protocols, and practices used to secure all the things connected to an IoT platform is known as IoT security. It has to consider special features of IoT, such as limited resources for computation capacity, various communication protocols, and wide dissemination in different environments.
In this blog, we will discuss important elements of IoT security risks, the most popular vulnerabilities, specific risks, and possible countermeasures. We will also discuss the critical security controls necessary to secure IoT devices & discuss best practices for implementing solutions related to it. This blog will help security teams meet basic levels of security standards as part of their IoT deployments.
What is IoT Security, and Why is it Important?
Internet of Things security includes a range of measures and technologies used to secure networked devices and includes all the steps taken to protect connected devices from various types of security attacks. The solutions include hardware security, data encryption, access control, and network security protocols suited to IoT environments. It is important to make sure that IoT devices can work securely and preserve the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the data.
Protection of Critical Systems and Data
From personal data to operational data points, connected devices gather and process significant amounts of sensitive information. These are often responsible for the critical functions of industrial systems, utilities, and smart buildings. This sensitive data can be accessed by malicious users, and device operations can take place when security measures are overlooked.
Leaked data causes financial and compliance losses, and disrupted operations lead to costly downtimes, as well as possible damage to equipment.
Prevention of Network-Wide Compromises
IoT devices can be an entry point into bigger organizational networks. When the devices are not secured, once they are compromised, they can be used by attackers to navigate through the network and infiltrate into other systems. These infected devices get incorporated into botnets to carry out distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) attacks.
IoT security steps will help ease increasing reliance on interconnecting devices by making them secure and preventing vulnerabilities in network infrastructure.
Securing Physical Operations and Safety
IoT devices often interface directly with physical systems, and thus, their security is paramount to operational safety. Open-source critical security vulnerabilities in these devices present real-world safety hazards, especially for industrial applications and critical infrastructure.
With the right security controls, attackers cannot change device settings in ways that can harm equipment or personnel. This is especially useful as organizations use more IoT devices in their physical infrastructure.
What are IoT Security Risks?
IoT security risks come from many technical vulnerabilities across device hardware, software, and network communications. These include things like poor or weak authentication methods, transmitting data in clear text, having an old version of the firmware being used, and exposing unnecessary network services. Vulnerable devices also provide a way to exploit default passwords, open ports, and the lack of timely software security updates, which creates an entry point for attackers.
The distributed nature of IoT deployments makes security monitoring and updates more challenging since many devices are deployed in remote or hard-to-reach locations.
Hardware attacks such as rootkits via physical access to devices, supply chain tampering, and bootloader exploits are also significant security concerns. These vulnerabilities enable attackers to change the device functionality, intercept communications, or access the network without authorization. Many IoT devices have limited computational resources and, therefore, cannot implement strong security protections.
10 IoT Security Risks and How to Mitigate Them
IoT devices have their own security challenges, and organizations need to deal with them in their unique way. Below are the major security risks & how to fix them.
#1. Weak Authentication Systems
The use of default or weak passwords on IoT devices offers a low-hanging opportunity for unauthorized users to gain access. A lot of manufacturers ship with the same default password, ‘admin’ or even 12345. Those default credentials are often found in device manuals and manufacturer websites, making them easy prey for threat actors. Despite using a complex password, single-factor authentication devices can be compromised. Credential theft remains the preferred attack method for many criminals.
The security of strong authentication is really multi-layered. All default passwords should be changed prior to deployment, and strong password policies must be applied. Organizations should use multi-factor authentication when possible, preferably with hardware tokens or auth apps. The use of certificate-based authentication is intrinsic to device-to-device communication along with automated systems, which need to be automated and robust so that they can recognize brute-force login attempts and prevent them from ever occurring.
#2. Unencrypted Data Transmission
Many IoT devices send sensitive data in unencrypted transmissions, making the information easy to interpret. This includes everything from sensor readings, command signals, and user data exchanged between devices and central systems. Network sniffing, man-in-the-middle attacks, or even compromised network infrastructure allow attackers to capture unencrypted data. This issue escalates when such devices send data across public networks or remotely, where an intermediary can easily examine the traffic.
It is essential for organizations to ensure that unit-wide data transmission encryption is applied. Organizations must use standard end-to-end encryption and secure protocols such as TLS 1.3 or above for all communications. The constant renewal of encryption keys and certificates keeps security standards high, while forward secrecy ensures that all past communications remain secure from possible future breaches. The device pairs can then exchange information about these keys in a secure and encrypted manner.
#3. Outdated Firmware and Software
The IoT devices often end up running outdated firmware versions, which have known vulnerabilities. Some manufacturers take days to roll out security patches, while others completely abandon old devices. Vulnerabilities in older software attract attackers to gain access to certain devices or control over them. Even when organizations want to update their firmware, the issue gets worse as most of them have large deployments of IoT devices running different firmware versions, which makes updating tedious and time-consuming.
Deployment and tracking of updates are systematic processes related to effective firmware management. Organizations should automate firmware management, keep track of versions, and create a routine schedule for updates with clearly defined maintenance windows. Any patch needs to be tested in a steady environment before being deployed. An accurate device inventory enables firmware version tracking throughout the organization.
#4. Insecure Network Services
Open ports and unnecessary network services on IoT devices create possible entry points of attacks. These services usually operate with excessive permissions and default settings. Excess network services expose an attack surface on devices and can be abused to gain unauthorized access to the device. Default configurations might have testing or debugging services that are not appropriate to be enabled in production.
Managing and monitoring the security of network services is crucial for organizations. They should disable all services that are not absolutely necessary and segment the network where IoT devices will be used. Additional protection can be added through dedicated firewalls tailored to the traffic patterns associated with IoT.
#5. Insufficient Access Controls
Automated IoT systems may not have sufficient access control protections in place, and unauthorized users can gain access to device functions and data. This includes both remote local and physical device interfaces. If controls are poor, an attacker may abuse default permissions, gain higher access, or completely get around access restrictions. Attackers will be able to handle sensitive data or change the configuration of a device if they have physical access.
To achieve the full scope of access control, organizations need a multitude of security layers. Carefully delineate what users can and cannot do based on job function in the organization’s role-based access control systems. Access log attempts include logging and alerts for unauthorized access. Physical security also includes measures to protect the hardware of devices from being compromised.
#6. Insecure Data Storage
Sensitive data is often stored directly in IoT devices without authentication or authorization. Such data typically consists of configuration information, API keys, credentials, and application data. In addition, sensitive data may also be stored in temp files or logs that are not wiped through traditional means of deleting data from drives.
Data needs to be protected with several layers of security. It consists of protecting all the data that is stored with full-disk encryption (if possible) and a secure key storage system that blocks attempts to obtain encryption keys or similar identifier secrets. Secure channels and storage locations should be used for data backups. Clear data retention policies outlining storage duration and secure deletion procedures are a must for organizations.
#7. Supply Chain Vulnerabilities
IoT devices are vulnerable to security vulnerabilities all down the supply chain, from manufacturing to being brought into service. Malicious firmware can be installed during manufacturing. Many device security problems arise due to security bugs in third-party software libraries and components. The description of components and their sources with respect to devices is often not detailed enough for security assessment.
Organizations need to have exact procedures in order to manage and verify vendors for supply chain security. Organizations need to verify each component and firmware of the device before installing it. Contractual obligations must include security requirements (such as component quality or level of assurance). Extensive documentation outlines the chain of custody for every component in a device.
#8. Lack of Security Monitoring
Most IoT deployments function without proper security monitoring solutions. The devices produce a high volume of operational data, but devices do not log security events well. The lack of monitoring capabilities means that, in many cases, security teams are unable to identify active attacks or security breaches before they reach a critical status. Centralized monitoring becomes challenging and requires resources because IoT networks are distributed.
Good logging and analysis systems are crucial for organizations to ensure effective security monitoring. Device logs must be aggregated and analyzed in central security information and event management (SIEM) systems. Quick detection of security incidents is possible through real-time monitoring, whereas automated alerts notify the security teams of potential breaches. Frequent log evaluation reveals trends that may signal security issues.
#9. Poor Device Management
Many organizations do not manage IoT device systems as other devices as mobile phones, laptops, etc. Major enterprises still do not conduct comprehensive device inventories, which complicates security management. Most organizations have no visibility over which devices connect to their networks or what security technologies such devices employ. Remote management features typically have very limited security controls, providing more attack surface.
Device management involves inventorying and controlling access in an organized manner. All IoT devices should be managed via an asset management system that tracks them through their lifecycle. Unauthorized devices are detected by scanning the network regularly, while configuration management ensures that all your devices maintain consistent security settings. These remote management systems require robust encryption and access controls.
#10. Insufficient Incident Response Planning
Many organizations do not have an incident response plan. IoT device risks are extremely common and often documented, yet security teams struggle to detect and mitigate attacks against these targets in a timely manner. In terms of incident response procedures, they are not adapted to handle the specific challenges of an IoT environment, such as constrained device capabilities or distributed deployments.
Incident response demands a thorough plan and regular testing. Organizations need to have different processes within the response plan for different types of IoT Security Incidents. Teams should be trained for possible security breaches, while incident simulations assess response capability. Documentation should contain up-to-date device configurations and recovery processes. Communication plans should be in place to notify all stakeholders during incidents.
Best Practices for Securing IoT Devices
It is important to have an organized implementation of known security practices to secure IoT devices. Such guidelines enable organizations to secure their IoT infrastructure whilst meeting operational efficiency.
1. Secure Device Configuration
One of the major security challenges in IoT deployments is default device settings. The secure configuration process involves setting up encryption for all storage/transmission of data, configuring secure protocols where remote access is enabled, and having strong authentication in place. All configuration changes must be documented, and organizations should maintain standard security configurations for a given type of device. Configuration audits done regularly can help validate that the devices are running with secure configurations through their lifecycle.
2. Network Security Implementation
Standard IT security controls are not enough for IoT devices. IoT devices require tailored network security. Network segmentation helps isolate IoT devices from critical business systems, which minimizes the risk of potential security breaches. Network monitoring systems monitor the behavior of devices and identify abnormal traffic patterns that suggest there may be a security issue. Regardless of the platform type, any security team should provide encrypted VPN connections for remote device access and avoid connecting all other IoT systems through their network when possible.
3. Update Management Process
Updating software/firmware versions has essential implications for system security, enabling IoT devices to mitigate against known vulnerabilities. All organizations should have systematic update management, meaning they should regularly check for and implement new security patches or firmware updates.
4. Access Control Systems
Access management helps organizations keep devices from accessing their networks. Companies must ensure that role-based access control systems are in place, limiting user privileges to only those needed according to their job. Authentication systems must enable the use of strong passwords and implement multi-factor authentication when possible. Physical access controls protect devices from being tampered with, and logical access controls prohibit unwanted remote access.
5. Security Monitoring and Response
Continuous monitoring of security can help detect threats, enabling faster responses. Organizations should deploy centralized logging to consolidate security events for all IoT devices. Security teams need incident response practices that are fit for their IoT environment. Monitoring systems must monitor the behavior of devices, network traffic patterns, and users to facilitate the detection of potential security problems. Conducting regular security assessments allows organizations to find vulnerabilities before attackers can exploit them.
Prevent IoT Security Risks with SentinelOne
SentinelOne offers around-the-clock security protection for IoT environments with its Singularity™ Endpoint Platform. Using machine learning and artificial intelligence algorithms, the IoT threat detection platform quickly detects and blocks security threats targeting IoT devices in real time. It not only contains security incidents, stopping attacks from spreading across IoT networks through its autonomous response capabilities but also protects connected devices from emerging threats.
It provides a single-pane glass view across all IoT assets, allowing security teams to track device behavior, network connections, and security health from one interface. SentinelOne uses its behavioral AI to identify suspicious activity by examining the behavior of devices and traffic on the networks, catching both known threats and zero-day attacks that traditional security tools may overlook.
SentinelOne brings together all the existing security infrastructure deployed and enhances IoT protection capabilities through integration. The automated response capabilities minimize the burden on security teams while ensuring consistent protection across IoT deployments. The platform uses a scalable architecture to support large IoT deployments, so it can easily scale as the number of devices grows without compromising effectiveness with security. Frequent updates to threat detection algorithms guarantee that an organization’s device is protected against the latest methods of attack for IoT devices.
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Get a DemoConclusion
As organizations continue to deploy more connected devices across their operations, the need for ongoing attention and proactive management of IoT security has never been greater. Strong security measures are required to address the rising tide of attacks against all devices used in an IoT network, from device configuration to integrated monitoring systems capable of detecting and responding to endpoint incidents.
To mitigate the IoT security risks that organizations face, they must continue with the approach of keeping their security practices up-to-date by patching in real-time and using a powerful security platform such as SentinelOne. This will ensure their wider IoT operations stay secure and functional. Using these security principles and the right tools, organizations can fully use IoT technology with reduced security risks.
FAQs
The security risks engaging IoT devices include weak authentication mechanisms, unencrypted data transfers, outdated firmware, and insecure network services. Such vulnerabilities open doors for an attacker to access sensitive data, take control over the device operations, or use compromised devices as cradles and attack the broader network.
Default credentials, open network ports, software vulnerabilities that have not been patched, and insecure configuration settings make IoT devices targets. Attackers start by scanning networks for devices running vulnerable protocols, exploiting known security vulnerabilities in those protocols, and using simple automated tools to break through the network of a device.
Unpatched IoT software risks data breaches, device hijacking, malware spread, system instability, and regulatory non-compliance due to security vulnerabilities. Regular updates and security monitoring are essential for protection.
The risk of supply chain security is posed at every stage in the lifecycle of a device, including manufacturing and deployment. Malicious logic within components or firmware inserted during manufacture and security vulnerabilities within third-party software. Poor vendor standards, insufficient component verifications, and lack of any thorough documentation for devices make security harder in the process of acquiring and deploying effective elements.
Poor security of IoT devices can result in data leaks, interruptions in operations, and compromised network security. Hackers can extract personal data, steal sensitive information, and find a way to take control over how the device runs or use compromised devices to break into another system.