WHAT IS: IoT (Internet of Things) Security

Imagine waking up one morning to find your smart thermostat cranked up to 40°C (104°F) while your smart fridge refuses to open, blasting an eerie voice message: Pay 1 Bitcoin or stay hungry. Sounds like a bad sci-fi movie, right? Unfortunately, these kinds of attacks are very real.

Internet of things (IoT) Security is a specialized field of cybersecurity focused on keeping internet-connected devices safe from cyber threats. These devices range from smart home assistants like Alexa to connected cars, medical devices, and even industrial robots. The problem is many of these gadgets weren’t designed with security in mind, making them easy targets for hackers.

Why Does IoT Security Matter?

When you think of cybersecurity, your mind probably goes to protecting laptops, phones, or email accounts. But hackers are now targeting IoT devices because they’re often poorly secured. Here’s why this is a big deal:

• Massive Data Breaches – In 2021 (Verkada hack), hackers exploited vulnerabilities in over 150,000 security camera system, gaining access to thousands of live video feeds, including inside hospitals and schools.
• DDoS Attacks – The Mirai botnet attack in 2016 turned thousands of insecure IoT devices (like routers and cameras) into a zombie army, taking down major websites like Netflix, Twitter, and PayPal.
• Life-Threatening Hacks – In 2017, security researchers showed how a hacked insulin pump could be manipulated to deliver a fatal overdose. Connected pacemakers have also been found vulnerable to remote attacks.

IoT security isn’t just about keeping your smart light bulbs safe—it’s about preventing real-world consequences, from financial losses to national security threats.

How do Hackers Break into IoT Devices?

Unlike your smartphone or laptop, most IoT devices aren’t built with security in mind. In fact, a report from Finance Online states that 98% of IoT device traffic isn’t encrypted, making it easy for hackers to intercept sensitive data. That’s a staggering number—so how do attackers take advantage of this?

How Do Hackers Exploit IoT Devices?

Unlike your phone or laptop, IoT devices don’t always get regular security updates. Many come with default passwords that users never change. Hackers take advantage of these weaknesses in several ways:

• Weak Passwords – Hackers easily crack default or simple passwords to gain control.
• Unencrypted Data – Many IoT devices send data over the internet without encryption, making it easy for attackers to intercept sensitive information.
• Botnets – Malware like Mirai infects IoT devices, turning them into an army of bots to carry out massive cyberattacks.
• Device Hijacking – In 2019, a hacker took control of a family's Nest camera, using it to play siren sounds and warn them of an (imaginary) missile attack.

How IoT Security Works

To combat these threats, IoT security takes a multi-layered approach:

• Network Security: Firewalls, VPNs, and intrusion detection systems help secure IoT networks.
• Device Security: Manufacturers need to build stronger security into devices, but users must also update firmware and change default settings.
• Data Protection: Encrypting data ensures that even if hackers intercept it, they can’t read it.
• Authentication & Access Control: Multi-factor authentication (MFA) and zero-trust policies ensure only authorized users and devices get access.

How to Keep Your IoT Devices Secure

The good news is you don’t need to be a cybersecurity expert to lock down your smart devices. Here’s how:

• The first thing you should do after setting up an IoT device is change its password. Make it strong, and don’t reuse passwords across multiple devices.
• Don’t ignore firmware updates as they patch security holes that hackers love to exploit.
• Use a strong password and set up a separate Wi-Fi network just for IoT devices.
• If your device has encryption settings, turn them on to protect data.
• Disable unnecessary features. If your smart device comes with remote access, voice control, or Bluetooth, for example, but you don’t need it, turn it off.
• Use Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) when possible because extra security layers make it harder for hackers to get in.

Conclusion

With more devices coming online every day, governments and tech companies are stepping up security efforts. In the U.S., the Cyber Trust Mark program is like an “Energy Star” rating for cybersecurity, helping consumers identify safer IoT devices. AI-powered security tools are also being developed to detect and stop threats before they cause damage.

One thing’s clear: As smart devices take over our homes, workplaces, and cities, security can’t be an afterthought. Taking a few extra steps now can save you from massive headaches (or full-blown cyberattacks) later.