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HomeComputingSecurity & PrivacyInternet of Things Brings Its Own Security Risks

Internet of Things Brings Its Own Security Risks

Photo by Firos nv on Unsplash

Worldwide, the Internet of Things (IoT) market has been growing exponentially. Back in 2017, it surpassed 100 billion dollars in market revenue for the first time, and forecasts suggest that this figure will rise to around 1.6 trillion by 2025.

With the future looking bright for IoT devices, technology will continue its rapid, constant development to keep up the pace of the demands and expectations of customers.

The IoT has enabled people to improve their lives, businesses to run more efficiently, create more cost-effective services, and allow people to have more control over time, and much more.

However, while IoT has many good uses, it also carries some risks and security dangers. Let’s look at some of the security risks and what you can do to minimize the dangers for your own IoT devices.

1. Insecure Data Transfer and Storage

More and more people use cloud-based services to store their files and media. This has, in turn, increased the cross-communication between these cloud services and smart devices.

However, whenever data is stored, transferred, or received via the IoT network, the likelihood that there will be a data breach increases.

This is because before the data is entered into the IoT network, it isn’t encrypted. This is why it’s vital to only send, store, and receive data through a security tool such as a firewall or network access control.

2. Lack of a VPN On Router

Every IoT device you have will be connected via your home WiFi for households. This will include your smartphone, smart TV, smartwatch, doorbell, even your fridge if it’s a smart one.

This means mass amounts of data and personal information are sent on your WiFi connection. A hacker could use this kind of information to access your bank accounts, credit reports, and more.

However, by setting a VPN on the router to encrypt all network connections to the internet, you will remove the chance that someone could steal your data since it’s being encrypted. You can use a free Chrome VPN install, and in just a few minutes, you’ll have the program you need to secure your home WiFi network. Download a VPN extension today, set it onto your network, and your data will be safer than ever.

3. AI-Based Attacks

Surprisingly, AI attacks have been happening for the last 15 years. However, they’ve only become prominent with the rise of IoT devices. With so many devices and data being sent around the IoT network, it’s easier for AI to find victims.

Cyberhackers can hack devices faster, skim information easier, and make it harder than ever for people even to notice what’s happening. Aside from using security software, AI-based Intrusion Detection Systems can also be used to combat AI attacks. Using AI to fight AI is an ironically great solution.

4. Botnets

Botnets are a form of malware sent out to infect the victim’s device with a virus. It’s similar to the spam that infects your device and takes control of it, gleans your private information, or holds your device to ransom.

Unfortunately, botnets can cause many problems in your life very quickly, so you must have some type of anti-malware program on your network to protect your IoT devices. The malware will prevent and alert you of any attacks.

5. Weak Passwords

This security point can never be stressed enough. You can have a whole heap of strong passwords, but it only takes one that’s weak to compromise everything. This is especially important in businesses where employees use and set passwords relating to the company.

You as an individual must always practice strong password etiquette, and business owners must ensure their employees adhere to strong password policies.

Final Thoughts

Technology is continually advancing to make our lives easier in more ways than ever. And it’s essential to keep in mind the security risks that come with using IoT devices. However, you only need to use firewalls security software and install a free VPN extension for Chrome or any other web browser, and you can stay protected!

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