By Antoinette Hodes, a Check Point Global Solutions Architect and an Evangelist with the Check Point Office of the CTO.
This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the most common misconceptions surrounding IoT (Internet of Things) devices. As the adoption of IoT devices continues to gpost, it is crucial to address these misconceptions and provide accurate information to users and businesses alike. This will lead to better adoption and utilization, and foster a more informed and secure IoT ecosystem.
This is false. IoT devices often collect personal and sensitive data, making them attractive to hackers. Topics like user consent and data privacy should be addressed. IoT data is the “new gold” and it is important to anonymize data and incorporate data privacy-by-design principles.
IoT devices don’t collect or hold sensitive information
Many IoT devices collect and transmit personal or sensitive data, which can be
Often, there is an assumption that IoT devices are isolated from the network: IoT devices can act as entry points to the broader network, a potential starting point of starting the Cyber Kill Chain. We also see lateral movement and propagation attacks.
Manufacturers always prioritize security when developing IoT devices
IoT device manufacturers are already under high levels of pressure in a very competitive
Physical access to an IoT device is required to compromise its security
IoT devices are only a threat on the internet
IoT devices are immune to malware
IoT device security is a one-time setup
Either the device should be hardened from within, making it zero-day proof or security measures like ongoing monitoring, updates, and patching are needed. IoT device security is not a “set and forget” kind of thing. As the technology evolves, new security threats evolve along with it. IoT devices that are not attended to, from a security standpoint, can quickly become outdated and vulnerable.
Consumers are not responsible for securing their IoT devices; it's the manufacturer's job
Home IoT devices are not targets
It is often believed that cyber attacks solely target specific individuals or organizations.
Furthermore, attackers frequently focus on home IoT devices, aiming to either obtain personal data or exploit their vulnerabilities for more significant attacks. Unfortunately, many of these devices lack proper security measures, making them easy to compromise. Once compromised, these assets are often utilized as "zombies" in a botnet, potentially participating in activities like DDoS attacks.
In conclusion, debunking these misconceptions helps in understanding the true nature of IoT devices and the need for robust security measures to ensure their safe and effective utilization. Ultimately, the security of IoT devices is a shared responsibility between manufacturers and consumers.
Related resources
|