Internet of Things


“The rise in popularity is also owed to the potential for energy savings and sustainability.”


Potential data breaches are, therefore, a major concern. IoT


devices collect and transmit vast amounts of data, including sensitive personal and operational information. If not properly protected, attackers can potentially find a way to access this data. In environments like an IoT-enabled hospital, an attack could expose sensitive data such as medical records, compromising patient privacy.


Securing the IoT ecosystem Tese security challenges can seem daunting, especially with wide- reaching networks connected to a multitude of IoT devices. Tis is why it’s important to build your security strategy on the network, because if your network is secure, chances are you have a better security posture. Adopting security best practices, such as a Zero Trust security model, will help improve the resilience and security of IoT networks. Zero Trust operates on the principle that no device or user should be trusted by default, regardless of whether they are inside or outside the network perimeter. Tis model requires strict identity verification for every device and user attempting to join or access resources on the network. Segmenting IoT networks by leveraging tools like network fabric


use of resources, further promoting sustainability and cost savings at a time when energy prices are at an all-time high.


Security challenges As with any device connected to a network, IoT introduces significant security challenges. Te sheer number of interconnected devices dramatically increases the attack surface of both individuals and organisations, providing more entry points for cyber threats. Tis fragmentation also makes it difficult to implement uniform security measures across all devices. As interconnected devices also oſten come from different vendors, some with older soſtware and limited processing power and storage, it can be challenging to implement robust security measures that work across the board. In the case of the more outdated network-connected devices, they oſten lack proper encryption, making them vulnerable to attacks. Additionally, many IoT devices are designed with a focus on functionality rather than security, leading to vulnerabilities that can be exploited. In hospitals, the range of connected medical devices, each with different security capabilities, further complicates a comprehensive protection programme against cyber threats.


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is another crucial practice. By isolating IoT devices from critical IT systems, organisations can limit the opportunity for and potential impact of a security breach. Network segmentation ensures that even if an IoT device is compromised, the attack is contained and does not spread to other parts of the network. Regular soſtware updates and patch management are also vital.


Many IoT devices run outdated soſtware with known vulnerabilities. Ensuring that all devices are up-to-date with the latest security patches can significantly reduce the risk of exploitation. Finally, fostering a culture of security awareness is crucial. As


more industries with a workforce that isn’t typically tech-native embrace IoT, educating users and stakeholders about the importance of IoT security and best practices can really help mitigate risks. Tis includes promoting the use of strong, unique passwords and being aware of common social engineering techniques such as phishing. Te rapid growth of IoT presents unparalleled opportunities for


innovation and efficiency across various sectors. However, it also brings significant security challenges that must be addressed to protect sensitive data and maintain the integrity of interconnected systems. By adopting a comprehensive security strategy that includes Zero Trust, network segmentation, regular updates, robust encryption, and security awareness, organisations can better secure their IoT ecosystems and continue to embrace new innovations.


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