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With the rise of technology, devices that connect and communicate through data are becoming ubiquitous. By the year 2027, projections indicate that we’ll witness the introduction of over 41 billion new Internet of Things (IoT) gadgets. Each new device that enters the market presents potential security risks, as malicious entities search for chinks in our digital armor.
In the year just passed, 2023, a staggering 112 million plus cyberattacks were launched against IoT devices around the globe. Devices left unguarded present golden opportunities for these cyber predators to pocket sensitive information or even barricade the means to access the very networks that connect us.
But it’s not just up to the tech world’s stewards to keep things safe. Users of IoT devices can take concrete steps to ensure the safety of their data and the smooth operation of the network that binds their devices. These defensive tactics enhance not only the robustness of the technology but also the sacrosanct nature of our personal privacy and data integrity safeguarded within these interwoven systems.
1 Strong Passwords
Ensure you never stick to the preset usernames and passwords that come with your gadgets. These factory settings are common knowledge among malicious actors and can easily compromise your devices.
Foster robust, intricate passcodes for every piece of your Internet of Things arsenal and the networks they latch onto. Integrate a mesh of upper and lower-case alphabets, numerals, and symbols to fortify your passwords. Contemplate onboarding a credible password management service to both formulate and safeguard your login details with utmost security.
2 Change the Network SSID
What is SSID? This is the network identifier or name. As for how to find the SSID, just look at the admin panel of the router. VeePN experts recommend replacing the SSID with a less obvious one. This will make it more difficult for a hacker to identify and therefore hack the network. You can also turn off the network display.
3 Always Use MFA
It’s crucial not to overlook the security of your Internet of Things (IoT) devices. Just like the Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) you use to protect your smartphone, laptop, and online accounts, your IoT gadgets need that same defense. With MFA, each device is shielded by multiple security layers, making it much harder for intruders to cause damage.
Even if a cyber intruder manages to breach one layer of protection on your device, without clearing all the verification hurdles, they’re unlikely to create chaos. MFA fortifies your device’s security with a mix of factors, which could include your email, phone number, special access codes, or even biometrics—bringing robust, multi-layered security to your IoT environment.
4 Strengthening IoT Security with Multi-Hop Connections
To further fortify IoT security, consider implementing multi-hop connections, also known as double VPN or cascading VPN. These connections add layers of encryption by routing network traffic through multiple servers, enhancing anonymity and minimizing the risk of interception or surveillance. By integrating multi-hop connections into IoT device networks, users can significantly bolster protection against cyber threats such as data interception and unauthorized access. Embracing innovative security solutions like multi-hop connections is crucial in safeguarding connected devices and preserving data integrity in the evolving IoT landscape.
5 Encryption
In the interconnected realm of the Internet of Things (IoT), the flow of data is crucial to its functionality and efficiency. Yet, the very nature of this data exchange could potentially expose private information if intercepted. It is imperative, therefore, that security protocols within IoT systems prioritize robust encryption measures. End-to-end encryption stands as the guardian of privacy, rendering data inscrutable to unauthorized entities by encrypting it from the point of origin to the destination. Only those with the exclusive decryption key can access the information, whether it’s stored (at rest) or being transmitted (in transit), thus upholding a resilient standard of data protection.
To secure IoT devices, you need a tool with encryption functionality. Just as there is a VPN on Edge for PCs, there is an app for Android devices. For IoT without an operating system, you can install a VPN on the router, and then all connected devices will be protected.
6 Create a Separate Internet Network for IoT Devices
To enhance your cybersecurity, it’s advisable to establish a separate network solely for your IoT (Internet of Things) gadgets. The more devices you add to your network, the greater the cyber risk, as each one could potentially serve as a gateway for hackers.
A network cluttered with a myriad of devices constantly exchanging data significantly broadens the attack surface, making it more challenging to defend. By segregating your IoT devices onto their own network, you minimize the potential harm in case of a cyber breach. Consequently, should an intrusion occur, cybercriminals would be cut off from your most sensitive devices – like smartphones, laptops, or tablets – and, crucially, the personal data contained within them.
7 Keep the Firmware Up to Date
Maintaining the security of your devices is crucial in today’s evolving digital threat landscape. Cybercriminals are constantly crafting new methods to compromise technology. By keeping your firmware updated, you’re taking an essential step in safeguarding your device against such threats.
The relentless advances in IoT device security mean that developers are working tirelessly to address current vulnerabilities. Regular firmware updates do more than just enhance your device’s features—they patch existing security gaps and fortify your device with the most recent protective measures. Stay vigilant and update often to keep your digital experience secure.
It is difficult to keep track of all cybersecurity trends, but every IoT owner should know the basic cybersecurity measures perfectly. By taking the above measures, you can significantly reduce the risk of hacking or surveillance through devices that are not obvious for hacking.
