Cybercriminals are always looking for new ways to exploit sensitive business information, devices, and networks. A security breach can lead to costly business losses, compromised records, and poor customer experiences. IoT hack can affect consumers’ privacy as well as their personal finances if a company’s products malfunction due to hacking attempts on their network.
All network-connected devices can provide entry to your company, even if they are not secured.
As bring-your-own-device (BYOD) policies, Companies must keep cyber security in mind as wearable technology, smart security, automation systems, and flexible scheduling are all growing in popularity.
How to Protect Your Business From an IoT Hack
Here are three proactive methods to prevent an Internet of Things hack.
1. Assess Cyber Security Vulnerabilities
More IoT devices will be incorporated to improve security, flexibility, and convenience, businesses must constantly assess security risks and vulnerabilities. Knowing the location of all devices on a network will help you to protect yourself against cyber attacks and maintain the integrity and integrity of information and networks.
Voicive a few of the most common IoT threats:
- Enticing files or ads. Hackers could spread malware to IoT devices by embedding code in online ads and files that look legitimate. Hackers often impersonate trusted senders such as a bank or work colleague, and it is dangerous to click on attachments or links in emails.
- Unsecured security devices. Hackers could gain access to networks via vulnerable devices such as smart locks and lights, or video surveillance cameras. These devices can be connected to the internet without firewall protection, increasing their risk.
- Rogue wireless access points (WAPs). Hackers might lure you to connect free Wi-Fi networks, which grant you access to your network and passwords.
- Vulnerable IoT devices. To maintain security, most network-connected devices need to be patched and upgraded periodically. This is complicated by the IoT, as many devices don’t have a way to automatically receive updates or a promise from their manufacturer to make them available. Vulnerable devices can be exploited in many ways. This could lead to a breach in your network or privacy, as well as the possibility of hacking the IoT device.
Also read: A Guide to Security Equipment for Small Business
2. Establish Strict Policies
Consider both in-office and mobile employees when establishing cyber security policies. A few best practices:
- To patch new security vulnerabilities, continue to update your anti-virus and malware tools.
- Pre-programmed settings such as default passwords and location sharing can be disabled or updated.
- If an employee uses a device to compromise sensitive data or misuses it, enforce policies and take disciplinary action.
- To detect and respond to suspicious network activity, use a managed firewall as well as an intrusion detection system (IDS)
- Instruction employees to use a virtual network that encrypts data while working remotely
- To prevent unauthorized users from accessing the network, require password protection on all connected devices
Also read: 8 Most Common Types of Password Attacks and How to Prevent Them
3. Provide Employee Training
Inexperienced employees could expose your company to a greater risk of falling victim to an IoT hack. Training employees during orientation on proper BYOD device and IoT use, Remind them about policies during regular check-ins
- Clearly communicate guidelines so employees follow device policies.
- Inform employees about the dangers of IoT hackers
- Use best practices for security and device sharing.
