To increase efficiency in the tech world, the Internet of Things (IoT) has seen a massive increase in popularity. Being able to control every device in your house from your phone, no matter where you are is something out of a dream world. However, IoT is not without any risks and for the most part, people/users do not know how they can use this technology properly.
Several different dangers could prove to be catastrophic due to the Internet of things. On a private and professional level. A technology that able to connect every little device we use, on the internet and make those machines somewhat autonomous is a scary concept.
Among the many dangers that exist and continue to grow as we dive even deeper in the world of IoT, some are considered to be extra plausible to happen. Mostly because, on a certain level, they have already been happening. Let’s look at some of those dangers.
Automobil Hacking
Some of the first devices that were connected to the internet and became part of the IoT network were automobiles. Starting from planes and trains, to facilitate transportation, all the way to cars, nowadays most automobiles have at least one device that is connected to the internet.
As a result, there have been a lot of reports of hacking these devices, massing up with GPS systems and the CAN system. CAN is the controlling are network system that a lot of companies are using to control the routes as well as manage vehicles, internal communications and many more.
The security systems that prevent these trunks from being stolen are now at the mercy of hackers who can use the truck CAM to track down and steal precious merchandise.
Industrial Hacking
Perhaps the biggest danger in the industrial world. Industrial hacking is a nightmare for companies and enterprises who are always struggling to maintain their security, keeping their ideas, products, and services hidden from competitors. With IoT, corporate espionage has taken a completely different meaning seeing as now, every device in a company is connected to the internet.
Every connected device is hackable. They are controlling security systems, manufacturing systems, and any other kind of system in an industrial environment. That makes them a target for potential hackers, aiming to acquire valuable data that can either be sold or used for profit.
There have not been any major attacks in the industrial world so far. At least not ones that have been made public. However, that does not eliminate the danger. Industrial hacking is one of the biggest dangers that could change global functions and standards in security systems.
Home Hacking
Try to count the smart devices in your house that are connected to the internet. A smart TV, your home computer, perhaps a tablet. And now there are refrigerators, washing machines, and ovens that can connect to the internet. Heating devices can be controlled from afar giving you the ability to turn them on and off wherever you are, for your convenience.
Every one of those devices vulnerable to possible attacks, leaving your personal space exposed, making it a viable target. Hacking these devices could cause a lot of trouble for homeowners. From insanely high bills to the possibility of a home fire by switching smart electrical machines on and off.
The biggest danger in this particular case is the theft of personal data. From credit card numbers to home addresses and work schedules. Exessive use of IoT could result in homes being vulnerable to thieves
Yes, the Internet of Things is indeed making our lives a lot easier and it does have a lot of benefits. But at what cost? We can only be certain that IoT is helping us by making sure that our devices are protected. Some steps can be taken to ensure that smart devices are safely connected to the internet.
Here are a few simple steps you could take to ensure the security of your smart devices:
Check your security settings
Every smart device has a plethora of different security settings that you can check and change based on your personal needs and preferences. Certain features will allow you to control your devices but will also enable public access to them.
In most cases, you cannot turn off public access without turning off your remote access. If it is not necessary to have remote access to your devices, we suggest you turn off this setting. However, some devices can allow you to limit access, only to specific devices. Configure your security settings accordingly.
Update your software
Older software is easier to hack. Software updates are aiming to strengthen the security of the devices. With every chance, you have you need to update your smart device systems. Manufacturers are always aware of the vulnerabilities of their devices and with every new update, they are trying to fix bugs and plug holes.
Connect to safe networks
This is a very common mistake that a lot of people make. Instead of being careful they will connect to any kind of network, regardless of any warnings they might have. They simply do not understand the danger lurking in the darkest corners of the internet. Not until they are at the receiving end.
When you receive a warning for a website you are about to visit or a network you are about to connect, you should stay clear of that network. Even if eventually there is no real danger, this is not something you are going to want to risk.
Always use strong passwords
Yes, it is easy to have your birthday as your password. A lot of people are not able to remember very complicated passwords or passwords that are not significant to them in any way. However, a birthday or the name of a significant other is very weak and predictable passwords. You are not protecting your device in that way.
If you are not able to memorize a weird series of numbers and characters that do not have a real meaning other than being a strong password, you could replace some of the letters of your current password with numbers and some numbers with letters. That way you can make your regular password a lot stronger and it will still be easy for you to remember.
These methods are of course some of those that can help you protect your devices from cyber attacks, focusing mostly on home devices. However, although they increase security, there is no real guarantee that they are going to eliminate risks.
The Internet of Things has made our lives easier. Nowadays, whether we like it or not, the Internet is no longer optional. All new devices can connect to the internet and in most cases, it is a necessity for them to function.
You can still use IoT and make your life easier, as long as you follow these simple steps that will help you minimize danger, at least on a domestic level.
You can find more information on how to properly use Internet of Things and how to keep your devices protected by visiting the IoE-EQ official website.
