Internet of Things (IoT) Security: Protecting Connected Devices

In a digitally connected world, it's hard to keep your devices protected. Knowing how to keep them secure goes a long way.

As the technology stack for organisations expands from just computers and devices to more advanced technology, the need to protect them becomes more essential.

The Internet of Things (IoT) is evidently revolutionising our daily lives along with our professional space and social interactions, making it necessary to follow measures that enable more safety. 

From tracking our vitals to managing our environments, connected technologies have made it possible for us to do things with the press of a button or the sound of our voice. However, despite their apparent usefulness, the security of these gadgets poses a serious threat.

IoT device security is paramount due to the continual sharing of private information between devices and networks. Cyber risks such as data breaches, virus attacks, and even physical harm to property or people can result from a compromised IoT device. As a result, taking precautions to safeguard these gadgets is essential.

After working as a India's leading PR Agency for so many influential clients, Moris Media knows the importance of IoT devices for organisations and individuals. Hence, we provide a few tips that can protect your business from potential risks. 

Tips for Protecting IoT Devices

The importance of IoT security is growing as the number of connected devices and cyberattacks skyrocket. The increasing use of internet-connected devices enables hackers to attack people and companies more conveniently than before. Therefore, we need to be proactive in safeguarding our networked gadgets.

Here are some helpful tips for protecting IoT devices:

Safe Internet Access

Ensure that your IoT gadgets are linked to a safe network. We must ensure the integration of stronger passwords and up-to-date encryption protocols for the security of wireless networks. IoT devices shouldn't use public Wi-Fi since they're easier targets for cybercriminals.

Always Use The Latest Software Version

Security patches are typically included with software updates to close any loopholes in the system. Therefore, always use the most recent versions of installed software and firmware on IoT devices.

Keep Your Passwords Secure

Strong passwords are essential for protecting IoT devices from unauthorised use. To ensure that your passwords are strong and less prone to cyberattacks, they must be long and complicated. It must also carry a combination of letters, numbers, and special characters, so it is hard to break.

Two-Factor Authentication Should Be Activated

One way to ensure a double check on your devices is through two-factor authentication. It requires the user to input both a password and a code sent to their authorised communication method (phone or email), which you must enter to be able to access the system. Even if the password is compromised, this helps keep unauthorised users out.

Disable Unused Features

Disabling unused features and services on IoT devices is important because it can open up security holes. If a gadget does not require Bluetooth connectivity, for instance, it should be turned off to restrict access.

Set Up Protective Barriers

Who doesn't want to protect their device from unwanted access to the system? Of course, we all want that! Hence, to do so, firewalls are important. They are placed between IoT and other networks to help ward off malware infestations and denial-of-service attacks.

Monitor Device Activity

Routine monitoring can spot any unusual behaviour or access to a device. Many IoT devices come equipped with monitoring software that can be used to keep tabs on normal operation and spot any unusual behaviour.

Restrict The Use Of Devices

Only trusted individuals should be able to access IoT devices and to make it happen, you must ensure that you follow the necessary actions. Hence, you must remember to turn off or unplug your devices from the network, diminishing the chance of any unauthorised access. 

Wrapping Up

Undoubtedly, it is essential to protect IoT devices from cyberattacks and unauthorised access; after all, no one wants their personal or organisation's sensitive and important data to be leaked.

Hence, following the guidelines mentioned above will ensure that the usefulness of IoT devices does not come at the expense of our safety. With the number of connected devices and cyberattacks on the rise, safeguarding our networked gadgets has become more critical than ever.