Today, the Internet of Things (IoT) is permeating our lives in new ways almost every day.
In fact, according to Fortune Business Insights, the global IoT market exceeded $300 billion in 2020. It is projected to surpass $1.8 trillion by 2028, representing a growth rate of nearly 600%.
With the increasing number of devices connected to the internet, there are also more avenues for malicious actors to gain access. To stay secure, consumers and businesses should prepare for this shift. Here are some best practices for the Internet of Things (IoT) to ensure your information security.
Keep updating
Always use the latest software updates for your IoT devices. Manufacturers are constantly looking for ways to improve device security. When threats emerge, they work to prevent them. Once a fix is identified, they code it into their software updates. However, if your devices don't have the latest protection mechanisms, they could pose a risk to your cybersecurity.
Use encryption
IoT devices collect vast amounts of data, making them a prime target for hackers. One of the most effective ways to deter bad actors is to encrypt data and information. According to Palo Alto Networks, despite numerous benefits, 98% of IoT traffic is unencrypted. This allows malicious actors who want to eavesdrop on your network and obtain sensitive information to succeed. Encryption tools prevent unauthorized users from reading the data.
Automating security through antivirus software
When it comes to cybersecurity, the "out of sight, out of mind" approach doesn't work. But that doesn't mean automation can't be a valuable tool in combating cybercrime. Installing antivirus software and enabling automatic threat detection allows you to scan networks without manual intervention. Cloud-based systems with machine learning capabilities are particularly adept at understanding general network performance and identifying anomalies.
Closely monitor all connected devices
When a device connects to your network, it opens a door to your home or organization. Today, this can mean dozens—or even hundreds—potential entry points for hackers. Protecting your information starts with accurately understanding the devices on your network and ensuring they are secure and reliable.
Using authentication tools
Device-level security is just the beginning. From an organizational perspective, user-level security is equally important. Enterprises should take steps to implement authentication protocols that restrict who has access to content on your network. This adds a layer of security between your information and external users.
Regularly review online operations
By regularly reviewing what happens online, you can assess your security performance. Logging activity and metrics can help you monitor unusual and unauthorized behavior.
Disable unused devices and other entry points
Minimizing the potential attack surface is crucial. In other words, unused devices, sensors, and routers may be overlooked, but they can still pose a threat to cybersecurity. Identifying and disabling these entry points will further protect you and your information.
