Challenges and solutions for securing IoT devices in enterprises

In a fully digitalized world, where almost every device has integrated smart functions, cybersecurity in businesses and public organizations has become a fundamental aspect for operating normally.

IoT devices (any object or equipment that can wirelessly connect to an internet network) become an entry point for cybercriminals to launch cyberattacks against your company's systems.

Cybersevurity challenges arising from the use of IoT devices

The main feature of these devices is their wireless connection to the internet and the functions that derive from it; although it may seem paradoxical, this is also their main weakness. If the device lacks effective defense mechanisms, such as secure passwords or firewalls, cybercriminals can easily find an entry point into a company's systems.

An example of an IoT device that could cause serious damage to a company's IT infrastructure is internet-connected smart printers. Accessing them requires a username and password, and an attacker could obtain these credentials through phishing techniques and steal various types of confidential company documentation.

Moreover, there are other vulnerabilities and types of cyberattacks that could occur through IoT devices, such as denial-of-service (DDoS) attacks, device spoofing to obtain private data, and application-based attacks for injecting malicious code, among others.

As with other attacks, the primary goal of cybercriminals is to obtain confidential data and information that could compromise a company's image and brand reputation, in order to demand a financial ransom in exchange for not making the information public.

Main causes of successful cyberattacks on IoT devices

The causes can be both internal and external to the organization and may result from improper use of devices or a lack of awareness among users. The main causes of cyberattacks are as follows:

• Not segmenting the network: Failing to segment and divide the network into separate departments or sections can compromise all devices on the same network. If the attacked organization has a properly segmented network, the cybercriminal will only have access to a specific part rather than the entire set of devices.

• Vulnerabilities in IoT interfaces: Most IoT devices have web interfaces for management. If these interfaces have exploitable vulnerabilities or security gaps, unauthorized access could occur.

• Social engineering, a threat to IoT security: Users themselves can be manipulated and coerced into taking actions that compromise the security of systems and IT equipment. This is done through social engineering techniques, which have recently been fueled by the rise in generative artificial intelligence.

Security solutions to protect IoT devices

To prevent cyberattacks through these devices, it is essential not only to implement specialized cybersecurity tools such as firewalls, antivirus software, or anti-phishing systems but also to train and raise awareness among all employees or network users about the secure procedures that should be followed to avoid any attacks.

Below are some essential measures that any user or company working with or having IoT devices should take:

• Establish secure access: Implementing two-factor authentication and using strong passwords can make it more difficult for cybercriminals to access the company's systems.

• Use secure communication channels: For example, when using a web browser, it is important to use pages that employ the HTTPS certificate. VPNs or virtual private networks can also be used to communicate securely.

• Install the latest software updates: These updates typically fix vulnerabilities and potential security gaps, so it is crucial to have the latest version installed.

IoT devices can greatly facilitate both everyday tasks and professional duties; however, they can also pose a significant risk to the security of our systems by being a potential entry point for cybercriminals.

That is why it is of vital importance to implement specific cybersecurity strategies and tools that enable companies to protect themselves against emerging threats to their information or confidential data.