Countering the Internet of Things (IoT) induced Cybercrime

In a short period, the Internet of Things (IoT) has catapulted to new heights by leaps and bounds. Internet-connected appliances, smartwatches, cameras, microphones, TVs can do wonders ranging from boosting an enterprise's productivity to slashing overhead expenses and reducing energy spending within the network. The possibilities of what it can be done with the Internet of Things (IoT) are endless with businesses aiming to find new ways to use IoT devices very new day.

The Internet of Things in simple words is defined as the network of devices connected to the Internet to exchange data. IoT covers a wide range of devices, ranging from hardware sensors to computer programs. The popularity of the Internet of Things devices has begun to pick up steam. According to research performed by a leading research firm, by 2020 nearly 21 billion IoT devices will be in the marketplace.

Internet of Things (IoT) and Cybercrimes

While the Internet of Things offers numerous untapped opportunities for data transfer and exchange, this disruptive technology is framed for instigating Cybercrimes. Here are the top IoT carriers of cybercrimes that you should be aware of-

Smart Security Cameras

The vulnerabilities of smart security cameras alarmed customers after Xiaomi Mijia's images were streamed from one device to another. This massive breach was detected after the owner of Xiaomi Mijia cameras and Google Nest Hub asserted that he saw images from other's Xiaomi Mijia's when he streamed images from his Xiaomi Mijia to a Google Nest Hub.

Smartphones and Smart Speakers

Academic researchers have been successful in designing malware which is powerful enough to exploit a smartphone's microphone and smart speakers like Amazon Eco to steal the device's passwords and codes. Smartphones and speakers that are such an important aspect of our lives are not safe anymore.

Vending Machines

Smart coffee machines allow owners to control them remotely using their phones through vocal commands when they are connected to virtual assistant software like Amazon's Alexa for instance.

Do you know these smart vending machines that dispense tea, coffee and eatables are connected to the internet using dedicated apps can be a potential target by hackers who aim to steal the user's bank or card details.

Security Protocols to curb the menace of IoT Cyberattacks

A high percentage of IoT devices which promote smart living are venerable to multitude security threats. Thus, identifying effective measures for safeguarding the network it connects to and the technology behind it becomes vital. Here are the security protocols you must not ignore to curb the menace of IoT cyberattacks-

Use stronger passwords

It is always advised to keep stronger passwords for all your internet-connected devices like router, smart speakers or connected closed-circuit tv (CCTV). When you buy a new IoT device, change the default password on the first use. Know that if you don't change your password, you are leaving an excellent opportunity for hackers. Beware of search engines which crawl the web for connected IoT devices, to steal the default passwords of these devices. If you do not change your password, you are leaving your keys in the door.

Update security patches

Our devices regularly get a security patch update notification, and often it happens that we ignore or forget to update them. This can be a potential bait for cybersecurity attacks. Make sure that all your IoT devices, like a home security device, smart assistants are updated with the most recent software patches. The importance of timely patches to software and operating systems of your IoT device's security software, apps, operating systems and web browsers is one of the best defences against malware and other threats.

Buy Devices from reliable manufacturers

When you are buying devices from manufacturers who are committed to ensuring your family's security and privacy you are saving yourself from Cybercrimes. It is always advisable to do your research before you buy a smart device. Check if the manufacturer has had trouble with cyber-attacks in the past.

In a crux, in the technology connected world of today, enterprises have to ensure that they deploy IoT devices with adequate security policies like firewalls, intrusion detection and prevention systems to ensure they cater for the confidentiality of their customers' data privacy.