Have IoT devices changed cyber security? Has IoT created its own set of cyber security threats? Is IoT so important it’s become the top cyber security trend of 2020?
We look at the answers and how IoT businesses are adapting to the latest cyber security threats and consumer concerns. But first, let’s start with the obvious question…
What is IoT?
“The Internet of Things” in a nutshell
The internet has changed society. It’s created new ways to interact, communicate, and developed endless business opportunities. To adapt to this new world, manufacturers have produced remotely controlled devices that send and receive data via the internet.
These devices are referred to as “The Internet of Things”, or “IoT” for short.
IoT devices comprise of everything connected to the internet. They can include doorbells, televisions, security cameras and even robot vacuum cleaners! IoT devices are often designed to make our lives easier with convenience and connectivity in mind.
But with new internet technology comes new cyber security threats…
IoT and cyber security
Cyber security threats and the dangers of IoT
The advantages of IoT to users and businesses are obvious. But IoT devices are often vulnerable to malicious software and cybercriminals. They can pose a data breach risk, and leave sensitive data exposed. In other words, the dangers of IoT are significant.
Educating consumers on the dangers of someone hacking into their camera and spying on them is important to raise cyber awareness. Someone could so this even when they are not at home and attack and damage sensitive data and record even complex passwords.
Consumers worry over IoT safety
Why IoT manufacturers need to pay attention to cyber security
Consumers are concerned that IoT products are being produced faster than the cyber security needed to keep them safe. In a survey of 15,527 consumers by the National Cyber Security Alliance and ESET, half said that cyber security concerns had put them off purchasing a device. This was a major red flag for IoT manufacturers.
43% of respondents had either not changed their default router passwords or were unsure if they had. Cyber criminals target weak security, highlighting the need for more complex passwords. In recent years, source code was leaked for IoT malware that wound up online for research purposes, which led to more cyber security threats and sophisticated dangers.
IoT Cyber threats in the home
Home smart tech is becoming a top cyber security trend
Smart devices have now been integrated into many homes, and consumers are concerned about privacy. This is understandable, as the thought of someone spying on you in your lounge, kitchen, and especially your bedroom, is the stuff of nightmares for families.
It is estimated that 80% of IoT devices are vulnerable to a range of cyber security attacks. In a paper entitled ‘IoT Goes Nuclear’ researchers demonstrated how a fault in the design of a smart light bulb could be used for a ‘bricking attack,’ which cuts all the traffic lights in a city!
The expert view on IoT cyber security
Approaching a crossroads in consumer behaviour
Security experts predict that the rapid rise in connectivity could ironically be its demise. More people may choose to mitigate risks by going offline, if cyber security safety is not being put in place quick enough. People can see that cyber security threats no longer just affect IoT in business but has crossed over into their own personal lives and homes.
There is light at the end of the tunnel, however. Educating consumers on cyber security and cyber hygiene is fast becoming the top priority for IoT manufacturers. Governments are supporting them with more effective regulation of IoT devices, and technologies that prevent security breaches are being researched more and more every day.
We’re covering the latest cyber security trends and everything you need to know about cyber security. Have a look at our other articles for more on cyber hygiene and cyber security threats: https://www.exertis.co.uk/plugin/news-in-brief/are-emerging-technologies-changing-cybersecurity/