The Risk of Ease and IoT

The widespread adoption of Internet of Things (IoT) devices has revolutionized the way we interact with technology in our daily lives. These devices, such as smart thermostats, security cameras, and other connected appliances, offer convenience and automation, but they also introduce new security risks. When these devices are connected to a corporate network, they can pose a significant threat to the organization’s security. Here are some of the over-looked implications of using IoT devices on a corporate network and what steps should be taken to minimize the risk.

Implications of IoT Devices on Corporate Network
The most significant risk associated with IoT devices is the potential for unauthorized access to the corporate network. Hackers can exploit vulnerabilities in these devices, gaining access to the network and stealing sensitive data, installing malware, and causing other damage. IoT devices can be particularly vulnerable because they often have default usernames and passwords that are easy to guess or that are never changed.

Another implication of using IoT devices on a corporate network is the increased attack surface. The more devices that are added to the network, the more potential entry points there are for hackers. This makes it harder for security teams to monitor and protect the network effectively.

Finally, IoT devices can be vulnerable to denial-of-service (DoS) attacks, where hackers overwhelm the device and render it useless, disrupting the organization’s operations.

Steps to Minimize Risk
To minimize the risk associated with IoT devices on a corporate network, organizations should take the following steps:

Implement Network Segmentation: Network segmentation can help reduce the impact of a potential breach by limiting the access of the attacker to the entire network.

Use Strong Passwords: All IoT devices should be configured with strong and unique passwords. These passwords should be changed regularly and should not be shared among employees.

Apply Software Updates: Regular software updates for all IoT devices should be a part of the organization’s security plan to patch known vulnerabilities.

Implement Security Monitoring: Real-time monitoring of the network for unusual activities can help detect and prevent attacks. Anomaly detection systems can alert security teams when a device is behaving abnormally.

Use Encryption: All data transmitted to and from IoT devices should be encrypted to protect sensitive information.

Train Employees: Employees should be trained on the security risks associated with IoT devices and how to identify potential threats.

IoT devices offer convenience and automation, but they also introduce new security risks to corporate networks. The implications of using IoT devices on a corporate network are significant, but with the right security measures in place, the risk can be minimized. Network segmentation, strong passwords, regular software updates, security monitoring, encryption, and employee training are all essential components of an effective IoT security strategy. By following these steps, organizations can ensure that their IoT devices do not become a liability to their security posture. Contact us, to see how we can secure your IoT at your office.