It is important to understand that the Internet of Things (IoT) is based on the concept of providing remote user access anywhere around the world to acquire data, operate computers, and other devices. The widespread IoT network includes computing devices along with unrelated machines that are solely responsible to transfer data excluding human-to-computer or human-to-human involvement.
The outbreak of technology and vitality smart devices in diverse sectors such as energy, finance, government, etc, makes it imperative to focus on their security standards. As per security firm, Kaspersky, close to one-third (28%) of companies managing IoT systems were threatened with attacks impacting their internet-connected devices during the year 2019. Furthermore, almost 61% of organizations are actively making use of IoT platforms; thereby, enhancing the overall scope for IoT security in the coming years.
Below are seven crucial steps for a business to uplift IoT security for preventing a data breach.
Swapping Default Passwords
The foremost step to enhance IoT security is through a sensible approach. It is recommended for businesses to enforce procedures that permit the changing of default passwords. This action should be implemented for each of their IoT devices present on the network. In addition, the updated passwords need to be changed on a timely basis. For added safety, the passwords can be simply stored in a password vault. This step can prevent unauthorized users from gaining access to valuable information.
Detach Corporate Network
Count it as an essential step to split the corporate network from unmanaged IoT devices. This can include security cameras, HVAC systems, temperature control devices, smart televisions, electronic signage, security NVRs and DVRs, media centers, network-connected lighting, and network-connected clocks. The businesses can make use of VLANs to separate and further track various IoT devices active on the network. This also allows analyzing important functions like facility operations, medical equipment, and security operations.
Limit Unnecessary Internet Admittance to IoT Devices
Many devices run on outdated operating systems. This can become a threat since any such embedded operating system can be purposely reached out to command and direct locations. In the past, there have been incidents when such systems have been compromised before they got transported from other nations. To completely wash out an IoT security threat is not possible but IoT devices can be prevented from communicating outside the organization. Such a preventive measure outstandingly reduces the dangers of a potential IoT security breach.
Control Vendor Access to IoT Devices
In order to improve IoT security, several businesses have limited the count of vendors gaining access to different IoT devices. As a smart move, you can limit access to those individuals already functioning under the careful supervision of skilled employees. In case remote access is highly necessary, keep a check that vendors make use of the same solutions similar to in-house personnel. This can include access via a corporate VPN solution. Moreover, enterprises should assign a staff member to supervise remote access solutions on a regularly. This individual should be well versed in certain aspects of software testing to manage the task with proficiency.
Incorporate Vulnerability Scanner
The use of vulnerability scanners is an effective method in detecting the different types of devices linked to a network. This can be viewed as a useful tool for businesses to improve their IoT security. Vulnerability scanner in collaboration with a regular scanning schedule is capable of spotting known vulnerabilities related to connected devices. You can easily access several affordable choices of vulnerability scanners available in the market. If not a vulnerability scanner, try accessing free scanning options such as NMAP.
Utilize Network Access Control (NAC)
An organization can successfully improve IoT security by implementing a NAC solution consisting of a proper switch and wireless assimilations. This setup can help detect most devices and recognize problematic connections within the network. A NAC solution, for example, ForeScout, Aruba ClearPass, or CISCO ISE, are efficient tools to secure your business network. If in case a NAC solution doesn’t fall within the budget, you can make use of a vulnerability scanner for fulfilling the purpose.
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