March 28, 2016
With the exponential growth of Internet of Things (IoT) devices, the security risks associated with them have also increased manifold. Each device, including TVs, refrigerators, home automation systems, air conditioning units etc., which is connected to the internet has an in-built operating system, making it vulnerable to the prevalent online threats. This, ultimately, puts the end-users’ privacy and security at stake.
Here are some factors that must be considered to mitigate security risks in IoT devices:
Keep devices updated
Keep all the IoT devices and routers updated to the current versions of the software applications. This will provide protection against any minor security flaws in the software which may make the device vulnerable to a hacking attack.
Change default login credentials
You must create unique and difficult usernames as well as passwords for all your IoT devices. If you do not change the default login credentials, hackers can easily gain access to your personal internet network by breaching your IoT accounts. Make sure the password you create is complex enough to be cracked.
Limit the data you provide to the IoT service or device
Provide only a limited amount of information that is absolutely required for the IoT device to function efficiently. Avoid giving in sensitive personal information and if possible, enter a nickname instead of your full name. This will protect you against a potential identity theft.
Be careful when selling or purchasing used IoT devices
When you buy a used IoT device, it is quite possible that it has a malware or backdoor that can provide hackers an access to your internet connection. With this, they can infect your network, track your online activity and steal other important information. If you need to sell off your IoT device, make sure you restore it back to the factory settings to delete all the personal identifiable information (PII) stored in it.
Set up a different network for IoT devices
Some internet routers allow the users to create a separate network for different devices. You can make all your IoT and wireless devices operate on a network other than your home’s internet connection. Therefore, even if any of your devices are compromised, the hackers will not be able to access your entire network.
We, at Centex Technologies, can help to safeguard your IoT devices against common cyber security threats. For more information, you can call us at (855) 375 – 9654.