1. Lack of Regular Patches and Updates
While an IoT device may be secure at the time of purchase, hackers eventually detect new bugs and vulnerabilities. Only regular updates and patches can save a vulnerable device. However, many IoT device manufacturers deploy security patches irregularly. Therefore, cybercriminals get sufficient time to crack the security protocols and access business-sensitive data.
2. Insufficient Password Protection
Hard-coded and embedded credentials — such as pre-configured passwords set by manufacturers — provide an easy passageway for cybercriminals to enter business networks if they’re not reset on a regular basis. When an entire product line has the same credentials (such as username: admin and password: admin), it creates a golden opportunity for hackers to exploit your network.
3. Unsecure Interfaces
Just securing your IoT device is not enough. Securing the web, application API, cloud and mobile interfaces is also important. Unsecured interfaces lacking strict authentication and authorization protocols play right into the hands of cybercriminals.
4. Usage of Vulnerable Third-Party Applications
There are multiple third-party software applications available on the internet that you can integrate into the IoT ecosystem. However, verifying their authenticity can be difficult. Installing such applications without caution could result in threat agents entering the system and corrupting the embedded database.
5. Improper Device Tracking
IoT manufacturers usually configure unique device identifiers to monitor and track devices. However, some manufacturers do not follow a standard security policy. In such cases, detecting suspicious online activity becomes difficult.
6. Inadequate Data Protection
There is a significant chance for data compromise when data collected by an IoT device moves across a network and gets stored in a new location. Lack of encryption or access control of business-sensitive data within the ecosystem (both at rest and in transit) invites hackers.
7. Skills Gap
If end users do not have sufficient knowledge about the IoT device, it can lead to a cyberattack. An untrained employee may be unaware that even connecting to an unsecured Wi-Fi network could turn into a security threat.
Download the full complimentary eBook to see what gaps you currently have in your security setup.
